EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/13/2007

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Men News

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BELIZE

Sweet Revenge For the Tigersharks! -by David Magana
Last Saturday night at the San Pedro Sports Arena, the Tigersharks (5-2) gave a humiliating loss to the Orange Walk Eagles (3-4) 82-49, making the long awaited revenge for their fans to be an unforgettable night of slam dunks and team work display.
Everything started slow in the first quarter; it wasn't until after the fourth minute of play that the Tigersharks took the lead of 5-2 and from that moment onwards, never let it slip away. The Tigersharks had a 15-1 run and were able to win the quarter 20-8. This has been the lowest scoring quarter ever played by a team in the Semi-Pro league. Before this game, the record had belonged to the Rebels (1-6) who had lost the second quarter of the game played in Belize City against the Bulldogs (1-6) by a score of 17-9. In the second quarter, the Eagles little by little were able to cut down the deficit to 10 but lost focus and ended up losing the quarter 38-20. In the third quarter, the Tigersharks got on fire scoring hoop after hoop, displaying spectacular slam dunks from Keith Acosta (193-G/F-76, college: Texas A&M - Commerce) and back to back three pointers from Kevin Siroki (178-G-70, college: Westminster) to increase the lead to 26. By the end of the third quarter, the Tigersharks were up by a score of 65-34. In the last quarter, the Tigersharks continued playing a spectacular game and in the end they were able to completely erase the Eagles off the ball court, shutting them out to an 82-49 win. The night had fallen on Lester Cadle (188-G-80) of the Eagles keeping him in the shadows of a poorly scoring night of only 7 points.
For the winning team, the superman Keith Acosta had a super night with double doubles; 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 blocks, Douglas Penland (191-G/F-75) with 16 points and Greg Rudon with 10 points. In a losing effort, Sheldon Williams (180-F) ended with double double figures, 14 points, 11 rebounds and 2 blocks.

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BOSNIA

Yearly BIH NT tryout-camp : Roster published -by Nedzad Kladusak

Nenad Markovic didn t have much time to mourn the title KK Bosna lost in a dramatic finish.
He revealed his list of basketball players who will be invited for the first stage of NT preparations.
Players who are not in the limelight will get a chance to qualify for the NT preparations beginning from 03rd of July.
There are some surprises. Nenad Markovic invited Bavcic to this camp despite he has been considered to be among the 12 players despite his poor performances during the the series against Siroki.
Most interesting will be the appearance of Goran Suton (208-C-85), Nemanja Calasan (206-F/C-85, college: Midland CC), Goran Bajic (209-C-83) and Dino Hodzic (190-G-90).
It is evident that there are almost no players from Zenica, Tuzla and Hercegovina which is a surprise since these regions are dominating the competition in younger categories. Some names of Bosnians playing abroad are also missing like there are Dragan Tubak (216-C-87), Sabahudin Hodzic (217-C-84, college: Casper CC), Edin Alispahic (207-F/C-88), Husein Pistoljevic (188-G) and Nedim Pajevic (206-F-85, college: Weber St.).

Dino Hodzic

Nemanja Gordic (195-G-88)
Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85, agency: World Sport Agency)

Muhamed Pasalic (190-G-87)

Nicola Sormaz (-G)
Nihad Djedovic (196-G-90, agency: Beo Basket)
Goran Majstoric
Eldin Camdzic (184-G-90)

Adnan Husika
Milan Milosevic (205-F/C-85)

Ante Masic (200-G/F-85)
Bozo Djurasovic (200-F-87)

Dusko Albijanic (210-C-86)

Elmedin Kikanovic (210-C-88, agency: Beo Basket)
Aldin Klinac (206-C-90)

Goran Bajic

Amar Suljagic (210-C-88)
Edin Bavcic (210-F-84, agency: Beo Basket)

Oliver Stevic (201-F-84)
Jadranko Jusufagic (208-F)
Nemanja Calasan

Faruk Basic (200-G/F-84)
Goran Suton



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BRIT.V.ISLANDS

Basics Overpowers Winless And One, 88-80 -by David Edole
By Dean Greenaway

TORTOLA—Leslie Smith (6-6. 245. 16. Sophomore, BVI High School. PF-C) came alive in the second half to record a triple double in leading Basics to an 88-80, Saturday night victory in the BVI Basketball Federation Jr. division play at the Multipurpose Sports Complex in Road Town.

Smith scored 17 of his 25 points in the second half, while snatching 19 boards over the same period, to go with 13 blocks and five steals in Basics' victory. Kyle Abraham followed up with a 24 point 12 rebound double double. He also had five steals.

Shaheed Colling finished with a game high 33 points to lead And One scores. He also grabbed eight steals. Shamori Morgan tossed in a 21 point 20 rebound double, to go with eight steals.

Defending senior division champions Young Legs used a 21-11 third quarter run to over come a two point, 34-32, half time deficit, before holding off the Bad Boys, 63-61, to stay unbeaten. The Bad Boys outscored Young Legs, 16-10 in the fourth quarter.

Steve Parillon was Young Legs' leading scorer with 19 points and 15 off the glass. Jason Edwin and Ronnie “Gola” Norman, tossed in 17 and 11 points respectively. Chaurbin Smith paced the Bad Boys with 12 points. Eustace “Boss” Freeman and Wayne “Baby Fat” Campbell, pitched in 10 points a piece. Freeman also pulled 12 rebounds.

Algernon Auguiste's 26 points led four scorers in double figures as No Limit overpowered the Top Shottas, 88-62. Troy Davis, Jameel Benjamin and Troy Smith poured in 13, 12 and 11 points respectively. Tyrone Donovan and Iko Crabbe were Top Shotttas' leading scorers with 19 and 15 points a piece. Vern Sargeant added another 10 to the tally.

Dudley Richardson had a game high 33 points and Houston Penn followed up with a 24 point 16 board double, double, to lead the Guns past Bring It, 94-86. Ricardo Oquendo and Avery Percival settled for double doubles of 23 points and 12 rebounds and 20 points and 10 rebounds respectively. Kerry “Breeze” Thomas and Rascio Oquendo, Jr. added 16 points each.

The Bulldogs stopped the Rebels, 69-63, behind Gavin Frett's 20 point 10 rebound double double. He also had five assists and five steals. Travis Malone and Phillip Glasgow added 15 points each. Malone had nine rebounds and Glasgow, 10. Kimo Nibbs led the Rebels with 20 points. Kelvin Solomon and Ron Phillips tossed in 13 points respectively, with 13 and 12 boards a piece.

Ghetto Mix Beat Bulldogs, 81-79 in OT -by David Edole
By Dean Greenaway
Tortola—Ghetto Mix needed overtime to beat the Long Look Bulldogs, 81-79, highlighting BVI Basketball Federation weekend league play at the Multipurpose Sports Complex in Road Town between a series of blowout games.

The Bulldogs used an 18-9 second quarter run over Ghetto Mix for a 33-32, halftime lead in a game that was close the rest of the way. Ghetto Mix outscored the Bulldogs 17-15 in the third period for a 49-48 advantage, only to see the Bulldogs coming back with an 18-17 edge to knot the score at 65-65 at the end of regulation. New comer Leando Creque scored the final two of his 16 points to give Ghetto Mix the victory after outscoring the Bulldogs, 15-13 in OT. Creque also had 12 rebounds and three steals, to follow up McKenzie Baltimore's game high 26 points. He also pulled six rebounds and grabbed three steals.

Garvin Frett paced the Long Look Bulldogs with 23 points, seven steals, five assists and five rebounds. Travis Malone and Phillip Glasgow followed up with 18 and 15 points respectively. Glasgow also had eight rebounds and five steals.

Defending senior division champions Young Legs outscored the Guns in the first and fourth quarters, en route to stopping them 94-85. Jason Edwin had a 31 point 15 rebound double double, while Kennedy Bass chipped in 21 points, 11 rebounds, four steals and four assists. Steve Parillon (196-F-78, agency: Sanni Hoops, college: Henderson St.) added 18 points and nine rebounds.

Akeel Lewis had the Guns' leading score with 18 points. St. Thomas' Calvert White and Huston Penn added 15 and 14 points respectively. White also had six steals, five rebounds and four blocks. Penn finished with seven steals.

The defending Jr. division champs Virgin Gorda Jr. Mystics opened with a 23-12 first quarter run, en route to an easy 18-point, 79-61 victory over the Young Gunners. Lee Evans Jacobs led four scorers in double figures with 17 points and five steals. Frank Quashie, Mitchum Hodge and Coy Dore, followed up with 15, 14 and 12 points respectively. Sheldon John had a game best 22 points to lead the Young Gunners. Alliston Leonard and Jamal Serrant added 11 and 10 points to the tally.

Da Boys used a 35-12 third quarter run, capitalized on turnovers to overcome a five point halftime deficit, and pinned a 20 point, 88-68 loss on intermediate division champs Run It Red. Jeremy Wattley led the balanced attach with a game high 22 points. Gerard Vanterpool and Junior Frederick poured in 20 and 19 additional points each. Vanterpool also had nine steals and eight rebounds. Jamal Todman's 16 points and 10 rebound game with four steal, was Run It Red's top performance. Renaldo Smith and Paul Linton chipped in 15 and 10 points, with Linton also grabbing 11 off the glass.

Halstead Chiverton and David “Bolo” Lettsome had 17 points respectively in the East's 90-64, rout of Bring It. Douron Phillips tossed in 15 with Dwayne “Kobo” Penn contributing a 14 point 10 rebounds double. Ricardo Oquendo had 16 points to lead Bring It. Cardinal “Wolf” Fahie and Avery Percival followed up with 13 and 12 points.

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BURKINA FASO

the realism of the falcons -by Michel Pacere
2007-06-03
AS-Sonabhy # RCK
The petroliers needed a victory to be sure to play the finals! But the falcons are today the best team in the capital! Coach Bagahouinisse Dah started faster with Aboubacar Sara (-F), Hamed Fabre (-G), Celestin Bagahouinisse Dah , Omar BILA and Hassane SAWADOGO; first foul and the first point for Celestin! But Ben Sada DABIRE (RCK) wanted a victory; his second shoot is in. With Telesphore SOME, Achille, Ismaël KONE and Namory Kone, he developed a collective game against petroliers as they can't defend! Score at half time: 14-34!
The third quarter started as the first; some substitutions (Cyrille Tapsoba , Emmanuelle PODA) for the petroliers and the game became more interested! AS-Sonabhy played better and was reducing the score!
At the fourth quarter, the game became very hard; face to face, Cyrille, Hamed, Emmanuel for the petroliers, and Ben Sada, Namory, Ismaël for the falcons! The level reise up! Namory have 4 fouls; Ismaël and Ben are out for injuries! Cyrille plays well; he reduce the score (6 points late); Ismaël is on the ground again. The falcons don't break down! Namory works for his team! 2mn 56! The petroliers take bad choices; Hassane is too individual! 41s, three points shoot for Cyrille; 49-55; time out! With a good defence, the petroliers steal balls but they lose too many seconds to take shoots! End of the game
The young player of the junior team Emmanuel PODA for his first match in senior league played very well!
Cyrille Tapsoba, after some problems is again on the playground; he can do the difference as point guard in his team;
Final Score: 49-57 FOR THE FALCONS. Best scorer: Namory Kone and Ismael KONE (falcons) with 17 points

2007-06-10
AS-Sonabel # RCK
After their defeat against Kadiogo Bulls, the electricians know that the way to the finals were closed for them; for this match, they work hard to show that they were able to win against all the teams; for the first time, the falcons after their big match against the petroliers, were not so good (or perhaps, the electricians are the big team as everybody think at the beginning of the championship)! For the first time (in this competition) the falcons lost the second and the third quarter. Norbert Parkouda (-G) (PG, electrician) drove his team very well in offence and defence! At the half time score was: 33-33! The third quarter: 51-49 for the electricians!
Namory Kone, Ismaël KONE, Telesphore SOME were the players who win the match for RCK at the fourth quarter. One time again, substitutions have been the big problem with these electricians. Roland Bassindja lost some important balls in the money time;
Some thing is sure: electricians will not play the finals; but, they can be a big problem if they play like that against AS-Sonabhy; a new defeat for the petroliers before their match Kadiogo Bulls and they also say goodbye to the finals!
Final score: 62-67 for the falcons; best scorer: Ismaël KONE: 24 pts (6 shoots at 3 points)

Updating championship results -by Michel Pacere

2007-06-02
Faso Warriors # Celtics: 41-47

Kadiogo Bulls # AS-Sonabel: 47-36

2007-06-03
AS-Sonabhy # RCK: 49-57

2007-06-09
Faso Warriors # AS-Sonabhy: 48-84

AS-Sonabel # RCK: 62-67

2007-06-10
Celtics # Kadiogo Bulls: 29-55


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CAPE VERDE

2007 RBK Eurocamp: Day Three -by Pedro Gomes
Joao Gomes, 6-6, Shooting Guard, Barriense, Portugal
2 Game Totals: 7 points, 8 rebounds, 3/8 2P, 0/3 3P, 2 turnovers, 40 minutes

If yesterday's outing was just an average showing for the Portuguese swingman Joao Gomes, today's double-header was even worse than that, struggling to get his shot going and looking fairly out of control in his drives. He's clearly athletic and strong enough to get to the basket, also featuring long, nice strides to the hoop, although his ball-handling skills and feel for the game certainly leave something to be desired. Gomes has a reputation for being a pretty good shooter, but today his perimeter shot wasn't falling for him at all, which further dampened the outlook for him on the day. Defensively he was very active and played extremely hard, but even here he was a bit out of control at times. He did hit the glass Very well on both ends of the floor, though, taking advantage of his strong upper body, nice wingspan, and excellent quickness.
Jonathan Givony - Draftexpress.com

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CENT.AFRICA

Sato and Siena chasing the title in Italy -by Kristian Santiago
Centralafrican star player Romain Sato (194-G-81, college: Xavier) is having a great season in Italy's premier basketball league "Lega A" with Montepaschi Siena,
as they defeated Rome to reach the finals.
Siena finished the season on top of the standings and made it way to the finals by beating Cantu and Rome while facing Vidi Vici Bologna to decide who is going to be the new Italian champion this year.
The former San Antonio Spur averaged 13,1 points and 6,3 rebounds per game in the regular season and stepped up in the play-offs where he averages 14,4 points and 5,9 rebounds per game for the 2004 champions.In the deciding game against Lottomatica Roma , he netted 15 points and pulled 10 rebounds to send Dejan Bodiroga (204-G/F-73) into retirement and the Romans into vacations.
It's going to be interesting to see how Sato's recent success is going to affect the national team's performance in the upcoming African championships.

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CHILE

NT roster for Super 4 -by Daniel Valencia

The argentinian coach, Daniel Allende gave the list of 15 players that will be part of the chilean National Team in the upcoming Super 4.

Guards

Marcelo Hernandez (188-G-79)
Patrick Saez (191-G/F-79)
Erik Carrasco (181-G-83)

Leonel Mendez (184-G-75)
Evandro Arteaga (178-G-83)
Rodrigo Espinoza (183-G-81)

Forwards

Lino Saez (195-F-77)
Francisco Avello (190-F-83)
Carlos Troll (202-F-79)
Christian Diaz (199-F-82)
Emilio Paris (196-F/C-74)
Pablo Coro (197-F/C-69)

Centers

Patricio Briones (213-C-72)
Claus Prutzmann (204-C-79)
Jorge Valencia (206-C-77)

The teams invited for the tournament are Argentina, Uruguay, Panama and Chile as the host. The Super 4 will be played between June 29 and July 1.



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CHINA

USBA TO HOST INTERNATIONAL PROFESSIONAL TRYOUT CAMP July 29th to Aug 2nd -by Alex Yams
EUGENE, Oregon (April 10, 2007)---For several years, the United States Basketball Academy (USBA) near Eugene, Oregon, has hosted tryout and exposure camps featuring top professional players looking to play at a high level overseas. During the past three years the USBA has been home to the Chinese Basketball Association's Draft Camp and Draft. All players wanting and opportunity to play in the CBA's professional league attended this mandatory camp to be evaluated by all of the coaches and general managers of the CBA and be eligible for their draft.

This year, from July 29th through August 2nd, the USBA will hold the first ever International Tryout Camp open to countries from throughout the world that are looking for top caliber players for their respective professional leagues. This past year the USBA evaluated and screened over 600 players during the selection process to come up with the top 80 who attended the camp. Most players have played in high level professional leagues around the world, with several each year being former NBA draft picks.

“This year's camp will offer visiting coaches and General Managers a unique opportunity to evaluate top talent in a very controlled environment,” said Bruce O'Neil, founder and President of the USBA. “This will be an exciting event and demonstrates the commitment of the USBA to grow the game of basketball in countries around the world.”

The 80 invited players are organized into 10 teams, which each play five games during the four-day camp. The teams are coaches by high-level college and professional coaches. Our staff evaluates players each day and statistics are provided by Cybersports, the finest program in the world.

About the United States Basketball Academy
The USBA is one of the world's leaders in basketball education and coach-player services. Founded in 1990, the Academy is located in the beautiful McKenzie River Valley 47 miles east of Eugene, Oregon. The academy serves as a training facility for national and professional basketball teams from China, Korea, Japan the Philippines and other countries from throughout the world. Its advisory board and faculty include many of the world's most respected coaches and former players. Legendary coach John Wooden, Pete Newell, Bob Hill, Arvydas Sabonis, Bill Cartwright, Rick Barry Dale Brown, Jim Harrick, George Karl, Ted Owens and Yeoh Choo Hock (Secretary General of FIBA-Asia) to the list of more than 40 eminent basketball experts associated with the USBA.

Please feel free to contact Braidy Oneil at BraidyOneil@aol.com for more information on camp , also please visit the USBA website at Http://www.USBA-Inc.com. This press release is provided by the United States Basketball Academy.

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COLOMBIA

Colombia men U-17 National Team for the Southamerican Championship -by Victor Garcia
Colombia is already in Venezuela ready to play in the Southamerican Championship U-17, this team is the first step of the new National Teams Program sponsored by Saludcoop, the players were scouted in the National U-17 Tournament, Bogota was the champion in the National.
Again Hernan Giraldo is the Head coach, and Yesid Rivero the manager of the National Teams program is the assistant coach.

Colombia U-17 National Team roster:
Santiago Pelaez (6`1" Guard - Antioquia)
Mateo Solarte (6`3" Forward - Boyaca)
Julio Velandia (6`2" Forward - Boyaca)
Nicolas Leon (5`11" Guard - Bogota)
Andres Bahamon (6`4" Forward - Valle)
Juan David Almario (6`4" Forward - Huila)
Gilo Hawkins (6`5" Forward - Providencia)
Lleiro Martinez (6`5" Forward - Valle)
Cesar Pastrana (6`7" Center - Bogota)
Carlos Varela (6`5" Forward - Choco)
Carlos Alvarez (6`1" Guard - Antioquia)
Daniel Monsalve (6`3" Forward / Guard - Antioquia)

Head Coach: Hernan Giraldo
Assitant Coach: Yesid Rivero.

The team have talent, Cesar Pastrana is a solid promise, have a great body ,solid rebounder, good moves in the post and nice shooting touch, Andres Bahamon is a versatile player with good fondamentals, Nicolas Leon is a really quick guard very dangerous running the open court.
Carlos Varela is still in process of polish his skills, Varela is a super athletic forward, with the right work he will become in a true force.

Federation Cup Shedulled for August -by Victor Garcia
The Colombian Basketball Federation Cup, sponsored by Saludcoop, is schedulled to begin on August 10, accordin to teh National Federation 8 teams will play in this year`s cup, at this time Piratas, Bucaros, Paisas, Soles de San Andres and InderValle are the confirmed teams, Patriotas, Condores, Bravos, also wants to play in the Cup.

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CROATIA

Cibona tied the final series 2-2 -by Eurobasket
Defending champion Cibona Zagreb managed to tie the final series against Zadar 2-2 after very close game 90-89.
The game looked like an easy victory of host KK Zadar. They seem to control the game till they reached 75-65 lead in the last minutes. But the hero of the game is Marin Rozic (201-F-83), who scored 10 points in a row and tied the game. Zadar players were completely lost. They tried to stop defending champion. But Andrew Wisniewski executed free throws without mercy, giving 1-point victory to Cibona.
The deciding last game will be on Saturday (June 16th).

Finals Game 4: KK Zadar - Cibona Zagreb 89-90
Zadar: Englisg 24, Barac 13, Johnson 12, Colak 11, Vladovic 10, Lalic 9, Gecevski 7, Stipcevic 3, Orsulic 0
Cibona: Kus 24, Wisniewski 20, Wright 14, Rozic 13, Warren 10, Andric 6, Mance 3, Krasic 0

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CYPRUS

AEK made the 2-0 and is just a step from the sweep to the First division -by Chris Mammides
AEK succeed the road win which was looking for over Philips (70-74) for the final phase of the play offs of the Second Division.
With this victory the Michalis Michael's team is just a step away for an amazing comeback to the First division as the Larnaka team finished unbeaten both the regular season (24-0) and now is heading directly to the same record as right now has an amazing 6-0 in the play offs

The game was a real derby as the team of Philips got some “force” from some players which have signed in the team only for the play offs.
The crucial and actually the turning point of the game was the offensive rebound which Giorgos Kouzapas grabbed after the missing shot of his team-mate Srdjan Vokic (204-C-84) with the score being at that particular time (0.29' before the end of the game) 70-71. After the rebound, Giorgos Kouzapas gave the pass to the MVP and Top scorer of the game Fantousis who made a drive and succeeded a goal foul which actually finished the game since the remaining time was forbidden for the team of Philips to do anything. Final score 70-74

Quarters: 14-17, 29-28, 49-58, 70-74
Friends of Philips College (Coach G. Papadopoulos) Panteli 15(3), Hatzivasileiou 5, Vienna 4, Prokopiou 11, Pittakis 2, Konstantinou 9(1), Siakallis 10(1), Papanikolaou 14(2).

AEK Larnakas (Coach M. Michael) Sellas 2, Fantousis 26(3), Lefkaritis 3(1), Kouzapas 16, Nikos Michael 11, Stylianou 10(2), Srdjan Vokic 6.

Interview Johnny Neumann: The coach who discovered Darrell Armstrong wants back in Cyprus! -by Erodotos Miltiadous

Coach Neumann John who worked in Cyprus in the early 90's as head coach of Pezoporikos (now AEK Larnaka) gave an interesting interview to Nemanja Bjetov and CyBasketball.com. The coach who was credited for discovering Darrell Armstrong wants to return to Cyprus and take over APOEL Nicosia.

After finding out about Coach Johnny Neumann's declaration of interest in the head coach position at Dentalcon APOEL, CyBasketball.com conducted an exclusive interview with the legendary coach. Neumann has letters of recommendation from coaches like Pat Riley, Phil Jackson and George Karl and he worked with Jack McCloskey of the Detroit Pistons. One can only imagine the added caliber his presence would give to basketball in Cyprus as the head coach of Dentalcon APOEL.

Could you please introduce yourself to the readers of CyBasketball.com?
Hello my name is Coach Neumann John .

When did you first realize what you wanted to do for a career? What was it about basketball that attracted you?
When I was 5 years old I started to play basketball and ever since I have loved the game with all my heart. I used to watch my older brother play when I was younger.

What is your basketball philosophy?
I like to play pressure defense and an up-tempo game and I love my teams to be able to shoot 3-point shots.

What do you consider your biggest success?
My biggest success was when I was at Pezoporikos and won the first basketball game in a European cup. The next one was coaching the Lebanese National Team and for the first time in the history of the country to qualify for the World Championship. The reason these two things stand out so much for me is because of the players I coached and the people I worked with.

How would you describe the contribution that you've made to the game of basketball, and the most important thing that you think you've done?
I feel that almost every country I have been in, I have been able to accomplish something that no other coach has done before. A good example of this is when I coached P.A.O.K in Greece and we were the first team to beat Aris in seven years. I feel that I have been blessed by God and given the opportunity to coach some great players. I give all the credit to the players, because without good players that want to learn and get better you can never be a really good coach.

I know it's hard to single out particular moments, but is there one or two in your career that stand out as the most exciting or thrilling?
I believe that helping young players reach their dreams and watching them develop as men is a feeling that only a coach can feel.

Was there a particular experience that you remember from the time you were coaching in Cyprus that had a big effect on you?
All the love and happiness showed to me by the people of Cyprus.

We all know the career influence attribute to Darrell Armstrong's ‘discovery' in Cyprus, but what has this meant to your coaching career?
In reality, really nothing at all. I have coached 15 players that have gone onto the NBA, but the players from Cyprus that I coached certainly helped Darrell a lot. Costas, Tony, Christos, Michael, and Nikos were a joy to coach and we had a Dream Team. But when Darrell called me from the States to thank me, I told him that maybe I opened a door for him, but he was the one that made the NBA.

Do you have an interesting story to share with us from the time you were coaching Pezoporikos?
Yes, of course, but we had so many good times that to single out one story is not really fair.

How would you compare the level of the basketball in Cyprus to the level of the game in the other European countries where you coached throughout the years? What is the essential difference?
I think the level of play has gotten better and more people enjoy the game, but the team I coached in Larnaca, we could have played with any of the teams now.

What's your next big challenge?
I am in the process of talking with teams now about where I will coach this coming season, but to be honest I would love to come back to Cyprus and coach again. I have just returned from coaching in China and I would be honored to coach the APOEL basketball team. This would be my next challenge to bring the championship back to APOEL. I have won many championships since leaving Cyprus and the challenge of coaching APOEL and developing the team and playing in Europe would be something. I coached APOEL for a few games in the cup before I left Cyprus and it was fun, but the problem was not having the foreign players that I selected to play with the players from Cyprus.



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DOMINICAN REP.

LIDOBA IS BACK!!!!!!! -by Oscar Peralta
Dominican Republic's 1st division league is back. The league is set to start on july, 6 2007. The league will consist of 8 teams which will be broken down into 2 groups of 4. The teams participating will be Panteras del Distrito Nacional, Indios de San Francisco, Constituyentes de San Cristobal, Metros de Santiago, Reales de La Vega, Caneros de La Romana, Cocolos de San Pedro de Macoris, and Marineros de Puerto Plata. It should be an exiting season for Dominican basketball.

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EUROLEAGUE

Papaloukas: I want to go to the NBA! -by Kostas Papadopoulos
Theodoros Papaloukas (200-G-77, agency: Interperformances) gave a press conference yesterday, since his camp will begin on July, both in Athens and Thessaloniki, and spoke about everything. Teo admitted the rumours that he is searching for a team in NBA, adding that this team should give him the playing time, the money and the victories that he used to enjoy in Europe. He also revealed that he will definitely stay in CSKA if his dream for NBA will not be a reality. “I want to go to the NBA but only for playing in the highest level. I am not a teenager anymore; I am almost 31 years old, thus I have to be very careful. I will go to a team that is a winner; I don't want to play for a club that counts 50 losses every season. NBA is not like Europe and I am used to the European style. Here there are no salary cups, transactions and there are some very important and serious laws that are followed by everybody. It is not like Greece”, he stated, adding that “I am speaking with 12 teams but I cannot reveal them right now. CSKA wants to me to take a final decision till July 15th, but I respect them and I care for this team very much; so I should respond the earlier the possible. I think that a lot of teams are waiting right now and they stand on a weird position, due to the possible transaction of Kobe Bryant”. Referring to his preferring future team, Theodoros Papaloukas said that he would like to “a team where the coach would respect me and believe on what I can offer. I don't want to be like Vasilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) that has the quality and the potentials to play in the league but he belongs to a team that hasn't given him the opportunity to play. Personally, I am interested mostly for teams such as San Antonio, Dallas, Detroit, Cleveland and Miami. I am waiting for some changes on those teams. If an important player leaves, maybe there would be an empty place for me. However, it still is a very difficult and an important decision, as well”. And about any probability to deny the Greek National Team in the case of signing at NBA? “I would never say no to our national team, for the next two years at least. If they want me of course… As long I am physically capable to play at the highest level I will play for our national team! I am more than glad for all that had happened to me. It's really out of my imagination to deny my future in the national team”. Regarding any possibilities to return back to Greece, Teo confirmed that he had some discussions with somebody in Greece: “everybody may understand to whom I am referring to, I cannot mention his name though. He has shown me his real interest, for which I am honored, but I don't want to come back to Greece yet”.

The New ULEB Summer League to Coincide with ULEB Competitions Regular Season Draws -by Kostas Papadopoulos
Euroleague becomes a game for all seasons with the introduction of the ULEB Summer League, an exciting new showcase event for talented players from around the world, later this month. Running from Thursday, June 28 to Sunday, July 1 in Jesolo, Italy, the ULEB Summer League will bring together experienced free agents and promising young players from several of the Euroleague's biggest clubs, as well as a team from as far away as China.
In addition to the new tournament there will be important off-season events in the Jesolo area throughout the referred weekend, including the regular season group draws for 2007-08 in both the Euroleague and the ULEB Cup. Euroleague's board and general assembly will also be in session, while Euroleague Basketball coaches and referees department will meet as part of their ongoing series of discussions about officiating. By bringing quality and action to an off-season audience in a new format, the ULEB Summer League promises to be a great new addition to the Euroleague Basketball calendar.
Among the Euroleague clubs participating in the ULEB Summer League are Maccabi Elite Tel Aviv, Zalgiris Kaunas, Benetton Treviso, Union Olimpija Ljubljana, Lottomatica Roma and two teams of free agents. What's more, a team representing the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), and which includes double-digit scorers from the Chinese domestic league, will make a first-of-its-kind appearance in Europe. All told, the eight participating teams will play in a total of 16 games from Thursday, June 28 through Sunday, July 1.

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FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: YMCA LPR signed Boakai Lalugba -by Rauno Hurmalainen
American F Boakai Lalugba (200-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Bucknell) likes it in Scandinavia! Lalugba started his professional career in Sweden 2003-04 (Helsingborg), moved to Finland 2004-05 (Aura Basket, Turku), then followed another year in Finland 2005-06 (Korihait, Uusikaupunki) and last season 2006-07 it was Sweden again (Jamtland). Coming 2007-08 season Lalugba will return back to Finland and the new Team is YMCA Lappeenranta. There is an option untill July 15 as the player considers possible offers from Belgium, France or Germany. When playing EuroCup games the Finnish roster is playing with another name: Team Lappeenranta.

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FRANCE

World Tournament of Douai: Israeli U20 national team undefeated ! -by Eurobasket
#s#
#e#6


Mills


Caspi


Gecevicius


Batum


Ogilvy

Scheduled just one month before the FIBA U19 World Championship in Novi Sad, Serbia, the 21st edition of the World Basketball Tournament of Douai has been one important stage in the preparation campaign of teams hoping to win the world title. Among the six teams (USA Elite Team, Lithuania, France, Germany, Australia and Israel) that confirmed their participation at the Douai tournament, besides the USA Elite Team being formed by Coach Linzy Davis who selected great Southeastern US high school players this year, Israel and Germany did not qualify for the next U19 World Championship. A new formula applied to the World Tournament of Douai, Northern France, consisted of a small championship allowing each team to meet each other and the best international players to face one another. This year, the World Tournament was held from June 6th to 10th in Carvin and Douai.
The French team led by many talents (EB Pau Orthez's trio Ludovic Vaty-Alexis Ajinca-William Molas, French champion Adrien Moerman of Chorale Roanne, Le Mans players Nicolas Batum and Antoine Diot, etc.) was one of the favourite teams of the 2007 edition. Latest FIBA U19 World Champion Australia was in Northern France for the first time and did its best to challenge great European teams. Lithuania tried to recover after the defeat against France in the final of the last UMCOR U18 European Championship in Greece. As far as talented individuals are concerned, the USA roster looked less impressive than in the last few years (the 2005 and 2006 teams had been truly amazing, with some NBA prospects like Kevin Durant, Chase Budinger, LaMarcus Aldridge or Thaddeus Young involved in the 2007 Draft) but the group of Coach Linzy Davis was once again competitive. Israel, with an impressive roster, was in Douai to prepare the U20 FIBA European Championship which will take place in Nova Gorica, Slovenia, and Gorica, Italy, next July while Germany of Coach Emir Mutapcic came with the hope to surprise one of the other squads during the tournament.
I talked shortly to the tournament's director Jean-Pierre Ciesielski while watching the end of the game involving Australia and Germany on Day Four of the event and asked him why the formula had changed into a small championship this year. « For budgetary reasons, we had to change the formula and not go through semi-finals and finals this time. Our usual partner decided to withdraw last February and we had to find another one. As far as the competition is concerned, everyone seems to find this new formula very interesting as all teams face each other. »
The first day of the tournament took place in the small town of Carvin where three interesting games were played in front of a nice local attendance. The first game between Lithuania and Australia ended up with the Emus victory 84-76. « Australia is a team to be reckoned with at the next U19 World Championship in Serbia! » told Jean-Pierre Ciesielski. In the second game of the day, the young US team with great prospects like Jordan Hamilton, Laron Dendy, Tracy Smith or James Fields (all approached by major NCAA coleges with great basketball programmes) largely defeated Germany 112-88. In the third game, Israel surprised France by winning with a close margin 90-86. Richard Billant's team seemed to have come on the court to play a scrimmage game while the Israeli team of Coach Gino Yaakov showed up to win the game.
The next day, two games were played at the Lycee Corot in Douai (Germany vs. France and Australia vs. Israël) and a third one was held in Carvin (USA vs. Lithuania).
In the presence of French Technical Director Jean Pierre de Vincenzi, France won against the German team 82-71 but always looked like they could become more steady especially in defense. Israel led by power forward Omri Casspi (Israel's Final Four semi-finalist with his club Hapoel Galil Elyon) also impressed the attendance and remained undefeated after a very athletic game won 85-72 against Australia. This was the first shock of the tournament and Israel, despite a poor offensive start by their star Casspi, could not avoid the Emus to take the lead at half-time: 37-29. Israel came back in the third quarter with better intentions especially in defense (43-43) and Australian shooter Patrick Mills was limited to a 37% shooting average from the field. Casspi (21 points, 6/10, 3/6 from 3-point range, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and 1 block-shot in this game) was excellent in the money time and Australians could not avoid the defeat: 74-85, final score.
Elsewhere on that day, Team USA of Coach Linzy Davis could never chalenge their tough Lithuanian opponents who left no chance to the American players.
On Friday night in Douai, Israel beat Germany without any trouble. The next game of the day was a convincing demonstration by the Emus who left no chance to the young US team. Australians had a great shooting average of 71% and Coach Linzy Davis's players never defended well during 40 minutes. Australia led by center Andrew Ogilvy (18 points), guard Patrick Mills (21 points) and forward Ben Dowdell (14 points) in offense won the game 118-76.
The game that many observers wanted to attend on that day was France vs. Lithuania. On the one hand France wanted to take its revenge from last year when Lithuania beat the French squad in Douai, on the other hand Lithuania wanted to prove that the defeat at the last Euro 2006 against France was just an unforeseen event. It was for sure one of the best games in this tournament: 25-21 for the French squad after the first quarter. Nicolas Batum of France and Martynas Gecevicius of Lithuania are excellent from all ranges on both sides. Lithuania came back in the second quarter and even took the lead by 11 at the half. Local fans started to have doubts as Lithuania was still ahead but great plays by Batum, Diot and N'Diaye allowed the French team to be in front: 89-85 with 1'40'' remaining before the final buzzer. Gecevicius and team mates could never come back and Richard Billant's young men won the game 94-87.
On the following day, after Germany's fifth and final defeat against Australia (95-72), their opponent ‘du jour' in this tournament, Israel defeated Lithuania (without Gecevicius, left on the bench to rest) in front of a nice attendance. I attended this game which definitely crowned Israel as the 2007 Douai Tournament winner. Despite a great start by the players of Rutenis Paulaskas (17-19 for Lithuania at the end of the first quarter), Israeli guards Gal Mekel, Yoad Bet Yosef and Dori Assaf were quick and ran the court well, allowing their team to end the first half with a short advantage: 45-41. Coach Yaakov's team was not challenged in the second half and Omri Casspi (8/13 from the field, 21 points and 2 rebounds) finally could score several easy baskets in fastbreak situation: 91-65, final score. Lithuania recorded 25 turnovers in this game.
In the evening, France (without Ajinca, also left on the bench by Coach Billant) beat the USA Elite Team after a very offensive game by both teams: 114-98. US player Jordan Hamilton scored 32 points and grabbed 7 rebounds but this was not enough against Edwin Jackson (29 points) and his team mates.
Great moments that the Douai attendance wished not to miss were the three-point shootout contest as well as the dunk contest. In the shootout contest, BC Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius' recruit Martynas Gecevicius who had missed the game against Israel scored three-pointers like a real clockwork regularity. He and Emu forward Clint Steindl battled until the last attempt missed by the Aussie. Gecevicius, among the best young players voted by FIBA Europe last year, was the three-point shootout winner. France's invited Third National Division player Olivier Gnahore won the dunk contest given that ASVEL's French U19 National Team player Edwin Jackson missed his last bid.
On the last day of the tournament: Israel finished undefeated and won against a very chalenging USA Elite Team 112-88. Australia finished second after beating France 86-90 in a last game of very high level. Nicolas Batum finished as best scorer for France in this game: 35 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. Australian player Patrick Mills had 20 points against the French NT. No problem for Lithuania against Germany earlier that day (73-86, 21 points for Lithuanian forward Marius Valukonis).
Created in 1986, the World Tournament of Douai has always attracted the best international U19 basketball teams. More than thirty players who previously took part in the event have been or are now playing in the NBA (Tony Parker, Carmelo Anthony, Andrei Kirilenko, Luol Deng, Rudy Gay, Daniel Gibson, etc.). Once more, many NBA scouts came to Northern France to observe young talents this year. Former Croatian star Danko Cvjeticanin was among the several scouts seen on the sideline in Douai. Glory days' champions Pat Durham (ex-SLUC Nancy, Le Havre, Vitoria, Golden State Warriors, etc.) and Derrick Lewis (ex-EB Pau-Orthez, Mulhouse, Reims, SLUC Nancy, etc.) as well as local stars like Baptiste Bataille (guard currently playing at Northeastern University, NCAA) also came to the Lycee Corot last weekend. They strongly supported the superstars of tomorrow and the organizers of the great World Tournament of Douai.

Final ranking :

1. ISRAEL 5-0
2. AUSTRALIA 4-1
3. FRANCE 3-2
4. LITHUANIA 2-3
5. USA 1-4
6. GERMANY 0-5

All tournament team:

Point Guard : Patrick Mills (182-G-88) of Australian Institute Sport (AUS) - AUSTRALIA
Shooting Guard : Martynas Gecevicius (193-G-88) of Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (LTU) - LITHUANIA
Small Forward : Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) of Le Mans Sarthe Basket - FRANCE
Power Forward : Omri Caspi (204-F/G-88) of Hapoel Galil Elyon (ISR) - ISRAEL
Center : Andrew Ogilvy (211-C/F-88) of Australian Institute Sport (AUS) - AUSTRALIA

MVP : Omri Caspi - ISRAEL
Best scorer : Jordan HAMILTON - USA

By Bertrand Larsimont on 2007-06-12



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FYR MACEDONIA

Naumoski could be the next coach od Efes Pilsen -by Todor Chalovski
Macedonian basketball legend Petar Naumoski (38) could start his coaching career at the club, where his star rose more than 10 years ago. Naumoski played for Efes Pilsen for 6 seasons, from 1992 to 1999. He hasn't been active in the last three years, but he stated that is keen to kickstart his coaching career:

- I want to become coach od Efes Pilsen, and to achieve the same success as a coach, that I achieved as a player. - said Naumoski for the Turkish newspaper "Huriyet".

Naumoski also played for Rabotnicki, Jugoplastika, Benetton, Montepaschi, Pipo Milan and Ulker. He was tthe key player of the Macedonian national team for over 10 years.

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GABON

8 teams inaugurate the first edition of the championship National category Cadet -by Tim Ndjiki

Big first for the young players of category cadet basket ball
The Federation Gabonese of Basketball (FEGABAB), that directs Mrs. Sylvie KOTHA NZAMBA decides to organize the first edition of the national championship in category cadet of the 17 to July 22, 2007 in Port Gentil.
Indeed since the creation of this institution, no national competition of youngsters has been instituted in Gabon, after the first edition of the junior the last year to Lambarene, the FEGABAB launches the challenge to not only organize the second edition of the junior in end of July, but as the all new young cadet category, for this first edition that will take place of the 17 to July 22 in Port Gentil, will also be sponsored by the Town hall of this city economic of Gabon;
Here are leagues that will have this distinguished honor to participate in this first edition:

The League of the Maritime Ogooue (LIBBOM) with three teams, the league of the middle Ogooue, the league of the Woleu Ntem, and the new league who has just been born Ogooue Lolo.



News of the Gabonese LASME STEPHANE, -by Tim Ndjiki
Our compatriot LASME, who spent an exploding season in NCAIII, will play this season in the team of JACKSON W in USBL (United States Basket League), We will come back there.

The Ministry of sports and the Federation Gabonese of Basketball (FEGABAB) decide to replay the 2nd half final of the cup of GABON. -by Tim Ndjiki
Cups of Gabon in masculine and feminine category that ignored the 22 to last May 27 ended in "tail of fish ".
Indeed the competition of men again called "cup David NZOUBOU" stopped at the time of the second half final between MANGA BASKET (local team) and STADIUM MANDJI (retiring champion). These last left of the land whereas it only remained one minute and twenty second; MANGA BASKET led three points;
Long before, to the seventh minute of the fourth quarter times, the public invaded the land, referees feeling in insecurity stopped the meeting during one hour and came three minutes, STADIUM MANDJI led six points.
The Ministry of sports and the Federation Gabonese of Basketball who spend enormous means for the transport of delegations and the convenient organization opted for an end happy of the competition, indeed the two teams are going to replay the half final on a neutral land (Libreville), then it tightened the final the following day; all transportation the restoration and the lodging are to the load of the sport Ministry, it is a decision that is going to save the Cup David NZOUBOU.
The winner of this second half final that is played this weekend (Saturday 16 June 2006), be going to dispute the final this Sunday 17 June with SOMO B that waits are impatiently adversary
But it is not going to pull up work in commission of the FEGABAB that promised to punish all what is guilty; reports of referees, the commissioner of the meeting and commissions concerned will be taken in account.
One expects heavy sanctions in months that follow.

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GERMANY

Bundesliga Playoffs SemiFinals: Bamberg Wins Series 3-1! -by Michael Taylor
#3 brose Baskets Bamberg 65 #2 EnBW Ludwigsburg 60 (Bamberg wins Series 3-1)

As Rundsporthalle rallied their beloved EnBW Ludwigsburg team last game, up 2 games to 1, Bamberg was poised to finish the series with a home win at sold out JAKO Arena. Knowing a decisive Game 5 in Ludwigsburg would result if they lost at home, Head Coach Dirk Bauermann and his men from Bamberg were very focused to seal the series on their home court. Certainly the heart and teamwork which has exemplified Ludwigsburg all season long would provide a terrific fight. In the end, it was Bamberg's strong defense, the JAKO Arena home court advantage and key production from PG Steffen Hamann which punched Bamberg's ticket into the Bundesliga Finals with a 65-60 Game 4 victory. Bamberg edged ahead with a 19-18 lead after 1Q. Q2 belonged to Ludwigsburg as they reversed their fortunes with big 3pt shots and stingy defense in a 16-11 run. At the half, Ludwigsburg held a 34-30 lead. In the First half both teams shot in the low 40's (Bamberg 42% and Ludwigsburg 43%) as the tenacious defense continued. Ludwigsburg's Nate Harris enjoyed a terrific 1half scoring 10pt with 3reb while Bamberg's Darren Fenn topscored with 9pt 2boards in the first 20min. In under 3min of action to start the 2half, Bamberg evened the score at 36. Overcoming their poor perimeter shooting, Bamberg slowly built on their lead until the 3Q resulted in a 21-14 advantage for the hosts. Foul trouble impacted two of the games most effective players as Nate Harris and Steffen Hamann sat down with 4 fouls early in the 4th. Bamberg pushed ahead 54-48 early in the 4th, but an inspired Ludwigsburg team battled backto 54-52 with 6min remaining. When Hamann returned, the game turned. With the powerful JAKO Arena fans behind them, Bamberg marched into the Bundesliga Finals with a 65-60 win. Steffan Hamann was the games difference maker scoring 21pt with 3ast on 5 for 6 shooting and 10 for 11 from the foul line. C Darren Fenn added 13pt 5reb while Casey Jacobsen chipped in 11pt 7reb for the winners. Off the Ludwigsburg bench, Gordon Scott buried 4 of 8 threes for a team best 13pt while Nate Harris totaled 12pt 4reb. After an explosion in Game 3, Michel Nascimento fouled out with 5pt 9reb and league MVP Jerry Green hit only 1 of 10 shots to finish with 5pt. Bamberg shot 45% from the floor while holding Ludwigsburg to 32% and Bamberg outrebounded their guests 42-29 in the game. Despite the loss, much respect to Ludwigsburg team for a fantastic season and congratulations for the terrific success. Bamberg now turns their focus on a Bundesliga Championship as they await the winner from Thursdays Game 5 between Koln and Artland.

BBV Hagen: Contract extension for Daniel Poerschke -by Moritz Korff
Daniel Poerschke (203-F-81, college: Hawaii-Hilo) extended his contract with BBV Hagen (Regionalliga West) for one more season. The 26-year-old forward averaged 11.2 points and 4.3 rebounds in 25 games for BBV during the past season.

2. Bundesliga-News -by Moritz Korff
FC Schalke 04 (Pro A) and Kofi Awlakpui (183-G-84) have come to a verbal agreement for the upcoming season. The 23-year-old PG will sign a contract with the "Royal Blues" very soon. Awlakupui has played for S04 earlier in his career and spent the past season in Herten.

Juergen Maassmann (204-C-76) and Oliver Lange (187-G-83) will not be part of USC Heidelberg (Pro A) in the next season. The 30-year-old center-veteran and the 24-year-old guard/forward were both role-players for USC in 2006-2007. Coach Torsten Daume, who joined the team during the past season, will meanwhile stay in Heidelberg.

The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (Pro B) added another young player to the roster for the 2007-2008 season. Nino Janoschek (204-C-87) comes from Hertener Loewen, where he averaged 2.5 ppg, 1.8 rpg during the past season.

Bundesliga Playoffs Semifinals Game 4: Artland Forces 5th Game!! -by Michael Taylor
#8 Artland Dragons 87 #5 Rheinenergie Koln 70 (Series tied 2-2)

Artland Arena was rocking in the final quarter as the Dragons caught fire outscoring rival Rheinenergie Koln 26-9 in the 4th to capture a critical 87-70 Game 4 win which evened this intense Bundesliga Semifinal series at 2 games apiece. Game Five on Thursday should be a fantastic playoff matchup between two talented and hungry teams! Lamont McIntosh topscored with 20pt while C Darius Hall added 13pt 10reb and PG Filberto Rivera chipped in 16pt 8ast to lead Head Coach Chris Flemings team to this important win. Entering the game with a 2-1 Series lead and confidence from previous postseason road wins, Koln and Head Coach Sasa Obradovic were focused from the start running out to a 1Q advantage. After 1, Koln led 26-20. But the Dragons responded with a 24-14 2Q helping them bounce back and take momentum and a 44-40 halftime lead. Koln enjoyed the better 3Q outscoring Artland 21-17 before the tide turned and Artland flooded the 4Q with big plays to earn the win. Fittingly, Koln's two best playoff performers this postseason --- Immanuel McElroy and Aleksander Nadjfeji --- led their effort with 13pt apiece. Demond Mallet and Marcin Gortat added 10pt each for Koln. Artland outrebounded Koln 34-21 and enjoyed the advantage at the foul line making 20 of 26 (76%) compared to Koln's 11 of 18 (61%). Both teams shot well with Artland converting 54% from the floor while Koln hit an even 50%. Koln even did a nice job taking care of the basketball, limiting their turnovers which had been their achilles heel earlier in the series. The decisive Game 5 will take place Thursday June 14 tipping off at 6:40pm from the Rheinenergie Dome in Koln. The game can be seen live on Premiere TV.

Skyliners get Maksym Shtein -by Moritz Korff
Maksym Shtein (206-C-80) is going to play for the Deutsche Bank Skyliners (1. Bundesliga) in the next two seasons. The Ukrainian born center with German passport just signed a contract. Shtein leaves ratiopharm Ulm after five years. His stats in 2006-2007: 33 games: 7.4 ppg, 2.9 rpg.

Ulm signed Betz for two years -by Moritz Korff
Germanys A2-international Sebastian Betz (200-F-85) makes the step to the 1. Bundesliga. He signed a contract with ratiopharm Ulm for the next two years today. Betz has been one of the best Germans in the 2. Bundesliga during the past season, when he averaged 16.7 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 2 apg, 1.5 spg in 16 games for TSV Troester Breitenguessbach and also got four Bundesliga-caps for cooperation-team Brose Baskets Bamberg. At the end of the 2006-2007 campaign he was named to the Eurobasket.com 2. Bundesliga South All-Domestic Players Team.

Bonn: Gardner moves to Oldenburg, Conley stays -by Moritz Korff
The EWE Baskets Oldenburg (1. Bundesliga) have inked Jason Gardner (178-G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona). The 26-year-old Bundesliga-All Star played the 2006-2007 season in the jersey of the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He scored 14.6 points per contest in the BBL, had 4 rebounds per game and dished out 2.8 assists during the past season. His teammate Jason Conley (196-G-81, college: Missouri) extended his contract with the Telekom Baskets in the meantime and will go into his third year in Bonn. With 12 ppg Conley has been the second best scorer of the team, right after Gardner.

Berthold Bisselik leaves Rhoendorf -by Moritz Korff
Berthold Bisselik and the SOBA Dragons Rhoendorf (Pro A) will go seperate ways in the future. The 45-year-old has been Coach and Director of Basketball Operations since 1999 and transformed the club into one of Germanys best programs for youth-basketball. Bisselik also worked for the German Basketball Federation in many years, coaching several Junior National Teams and serving as Assistant Coach for the Mens' National Team from 1996-1999.

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GREECE

Kolossos' news -by Kostas Papadopoulos
The extra trainings at Rhodes keep on going, since the new coach Vangelis Alexandris would like to extract his first assumptions about the existing and the future roster of the team. Alexis Tsamatos (196-F-77) will join these trainings at the end of this week, while Kolossos seems to be interested for Nikos Papanikolopoulos (193-G-79), who hasn't still renewed his contract with AEL 1964. In the meanwhile, Jarrett Hart (194-G-80, college: Kansas St.) and Kostas Maxairas (205-C-85) seem to be a past for the team, while Costas Tsotsos' place in the roster is also undoubtful.

Spanos in Ionikos Lamias -by Chris Mammides
A2
After only 24 hours from the "disagreement" between Spanos and Rethymno, the talented guard agreed terms with Branislav Prelevic 's new team. Spanos is expected to be the link between the otehr two "big" names which Ionikos Lamias is already in contact with and very soon will announce them. In the mean time Branislav Prelevic in his first official press release as the head coach of Ionikos Lamias mentioned that the Lamai team has nothing less than the bigger clubs in A1 and not only that but the target for the seazon 2007-2008 is no other than the good basketball and the promotion to the A1...

Papaloukas: I want to go to the NBA! -by Kostas Papadopoulos
Theodoros Papaloukas (200-G-77, agency: Interperformances) gave a press conference yesterday, since his camp will begin on July, both in Athens and Thessaloniki, and spoke about everything. Teo admitted the rumours that he is searching for a team in NBA, adding that this team should give him the playing time, the money and the victories that he used to enjoy in Europe. He also revealed that he will definitely stay in CSKA if his dream for NBA will not be a reality. “I want to go to the NBA but only for playing in the highest level. I am not a teenager anymore; I am almost 31 years old, thus I have to be very careful. I will go to a team that is a winner; I don't want to play for a club that counts 50 losses every season. NBA is not like Europe and I am used to the European style. Here there are no salary cups, transactions and there are some very important and serious laws that are followed by everybody. It is not like Greece”, he stated, adding that “I am speaking with 12 teams but I cannot reveal them right now. CSKA wants to me to take a final decision till July 15th, but I respect them and I care for this team very much; so I should respond the earlier the possible. I think that a lot of teams are waiting right now and they stand on a weird position, due to the possible transaction of Kobe Bryant”. Referring to his preferring future team, Theodoros Papaloukas said that he would like to “a team where the coach would respect me and believe on what I can offer. I don't want to be like Vasilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) that has the quality and the potentials to play in the league but he belongs to a team that hasn't given him the opportunity to play. Personally, I am interested mostly for teams such as San Antonio, Dallas, Detroit, Cleveland and Miami. I am waiting for some changes on those teams. If an important player leaves, maybe there would be an empty place for me. However, it still is a very difficult and an important decision, as well”. And about any probability to deny the Greek National Team in the case of signing at NBA? “I would never say no to our national team, for the next two years at least. If they want me of course… As long I am physically capable to play at the highest level I will play for our national team! I am more than glad for all that had happened to me. It's really out of my imagination to deny my future in the national team”. Regarding any possibilities to return back to Greece, Teo confirmed that he had some discussions with somebody in Greece: “everybody may understand to whom I am referring to, I cannot mention his name though. He has shown me his real interest, for which I am honored, but I don't want to come back to Greece yet”.

Sporting is interested for Printezis and Xanthopoulos -by Kostas Papadopoulos
Eurobasket.com has previously written about the interest of Sporting for Andre Hutson (202-F-79, college: Michigan St.) (having offered over USD 500.000, as rumoured), after signing Costas Harisis (211-F/C-79, college: USC) and almost having added in its roster Lewis Sims (203-F/C-73, college: New Orleans). The next news, however, are referring to Giorgos Printezis (205-F-85) and Vasilis Xanthopoulos (188-G-84, agency: FCM). The team from Patissia is said to have already sided both Olimpiakos and Panathinaikos, regarding the case of the two players referred; and if the case of Giorgos Printezis seems to be more difficult, since the player's excellent performances at Rookies Trevizo's camp and his will to return at Olimpiakos, Vasilis Xanthopoulos is almost certain to leave Panathinaikos.

Olimpia for Koumpouras? -by Kostas Papadopoulos
After the so-coming end of co-operation with Georgios Apostolidis (199-G-84, agency: FCM), and since the initial aim, Dimitris Kalaitzidis (198-F/G-85) had already agreed with Panellinios, Olimpia Larisas' next goal seems to be Fanis Koumpouras (185-G-83). Giorgos Bartzokas urgently wants his team to sign with a point guard, replacing Georgios Apostolidis, and the ex-player of Apollon Patras seems to be an ideal solution for him. However, the whole case has some difficulties as Fanis Koumpouras has also an offer from Egaleo.

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GUYANA

GABF 2007 NATIONAL -CLUB BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS DECIDED -by Joe Chapman
PISTONS SLAY KINGS TO BECOME NATIONAL BASKETBALL CLUB CHAMPIONS

(GB):- HISTORY was finally written when the Wismar Pistons basketball club clinched their first official national crown by sweeping fellow Linden club Kashif and Shanghai Kings, 2-0, in the best-of-three Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) organised club championship.
Pistons became the first Linden side to lift an official senior national club championship, when they won 65-56, at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court on Sunday night.
In retrospect, for all their efforts in sculpting arguably one of the most talented clubs locally; it came to naught as the Kings were ambushed by too many skilled players to choose from.
Conversely, the Pistons fired on three main cylinders in point guard Nevin Grenville, power forward Quincy Jones centre Nkossi Gurrick. The winners defeated their opponents with precision and combined with forward Trevor Profitt and either with guards Mark Louis or Wrensford Alleyene (Jr) who backed up their every move.
The Kings though were first out the blocks and led 5-0 as they played a
high zone defence which halted early advances from the top by the Pistons.
But the Pistons were soon within a point when Jones netted a garbage basket 9-10 with 3:45 remaining, then point guard Nevin Grenville's shot scored and being fouled in the process, he went and corked the awarded freebie which placed the Pistons ahead 12-11.
However, the Kings were able to, like in game one, earn a one point lead at the end of the first quarter 15-14.
Gurrick opened the scoring for his side in the second quarter and then sent Grenville on a break away basket, as the Pistons nudged in front 18-15 before the veteran former national player Abdulla Hamid knocked one from beyond the arc for the Kings who tied the scores at 18 with 6:20 remaining.
But the Pistons were able to rally to a 9-0 run with Gurrick, Grenville and Jones establishing their mark on the game for the Pistons, as they led 29-18 with 3:50 left. The sea-saw battle continued and Pistons took command at the half 31-27.
Hamid's three pointer gave the Kings the initiative soon after play resumed and another from downtown by Seon Charles helped the Kings retake the lead 37-35 with 3:32 left in the third quarter. The scores were level at 37 and the Pistons again rattled up points to end this penultimate segment ahead 47-39.
Obviously under pressure in a must-win situation and trailing the last two quarters, the Kings made their challenge, defending with a high 3-2 zone spread as they pressed at half court. Like game one none of the Kings' players stepped up and took the lead as they searched for combinations of their own to smother the Gurrick, Jones and Grenville combination.
The Pistons then took control rallied to their second victory against the Kings.
Point Guard Nevin Grenville scored 23 while Gurrick had 14 and Jones 10, the Kings best player for the night was Sampson with 19 points as Wilson had 14 and Hamid seven.
In the women's match, Georgetown claimed a victory despite a late rally by the Linden girls.

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IBL

KEVIN TYNER JOINS STAMPEDE DEBUTS IN WIN AT PORTLAND -by Joe Becerra

The Salem Stampede beat the Portland Chinooks 126-125 at Portland State University. Guard Blake Walker (6'5''-G/F-82, college: Portland St.) led a group of four Stampede players with 20 or more points. Walker finished with 26 and 10 boards. Guard Mike Tabb (6'6''-F-82, college: San Jose City JC) continues his solid season and finished with 22 points and 11 rebounds. Antone Jarrell (6'7''-F, college: Portland St.) scored 22 and added 11 boards. Nick DeWitz (6'8''-F, agency: Court Side, college: Oregon St.) scored 20 with 12 rebounds.

Shammgod Wells led Portland with 39 points with more than half of his points coming at the free throw line.
David Jackson added 33 points for the Chinooks.

Salem is now 14-3 on the season and sits in first place in the Western Conference playoff race.
The Chinooks dropped to 15-6 and are solid title contenders.

“ We never hung our heads even though some events caused the game to seem impossible to win” Commented Salem Head Coach Joe Becerra . “Our guys stuck together and we got the ball off the rebound and all the way down for a layup without the ball touching the floor on our last posession.” “Mike goes to the basket hard and it paid off on the game winning drive.” Tabb was fouled with 5.9 seconds to go in the game and Portland hanging on to a one point lead. Tabb hit nothing but net on both attempts sealing the victory.

The game marked the debut of Kevin Tyner (6'0''-G-84, college: W.Oregon) a spectacular guard who finished as Western Oregon University's all time assist leader with 600. Tyner was a four year starter and finished his career with an all conference season and numerous marks on Western's all time lists.

“Kevin made his pro debut with us last year in Tacoma. He had a triple double and just dominated”
“He was late getting back into the States after a great rookie season in Germany with Tries Karden.
He was first team all league and led the league in scoring.” Becerra stated. “ We like to think we are

the quickest team in the league and he may be the quickest guy we have now.”

“ I have not seen a point guard in our league that I would take over Will Funn (6'2''-G-82, agency: 123 Podium, college: Portland St.) or Kevin. So we are excited to
get Kevin back in a Salem jersey. He played some solid floor minutes and plays with so much composure.”
Tyner finished with four points four assists 2 steals and 2 rebounds in the win.

Salem hosts the Central Oregon Hotshots this Friday in Salem. The Hotshots are aptly named as they are a
high scoring fast break team with solid shooters up and down the roster.



Knights gearing up for big week -by Trask Frost
The Battle Creek Knights will square off against their arch-rival, the Holland Blast on Friday, June 15. Tip off time 7:15 p.m. at Kellogg Arena. This game is a rematch of the triple overtime contest on April 5, 2007, in which the Knights defeated the Blast 162-159 at Kellogg Arena.
Dennis Springs leads the Blast in scoring with a 23.9 points per game average. The Knights current scoring leader is Nick Zachery (6'3''-G-79, agency: 123 Podium, college: UALR) with a 27.8 points per game average.
Battle Creek Knights General Manager David Darkey--“We want to win every game we play, but taking on a rival like the Blast adds a little extra motivation. Sports fans in the Cereal City need to make sure they attend because of the history between these two teams.”
On Saturday, June 16, the Knights will visit Elgin, Illinois to take on the Racers. Elgin currently sits atop the Midwest Division at 12-5. In their last meeting, on April 6, the Knights defeated the Racers by the score of 108-100 on the road. Explosive newcomer DeAnthony Bowden leads the Racers in scoring at 35.0 per game.
The Knights will wind up this two game road trip by playing East Division leader—the 16-2 Elkhart Express at the North Side Gym in Elkhart, Indiana. The Sunday, June 17th, match up between the Express-Knights is scheduled for a 5 p.m. tip off time. The Express are led in scoring by Cedric Moodie with a 23.0 points per game average.
Illegal Motion dance team is hosting a dance clinic, age 5-17, on Monday, June 18th and Wednesday, June 20th from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the St. Phil High School Gym. Participants will have an opportunity to perform at the Thursday, June 21st, Battle Creek Knights basketball game at Kellogg Arena. Cost is $25 per participant. Each participant also receive a t shirt. For more information or to register, please contact Amanda at 269-209-5892 or email illegalmotiondanceteam@yahoo.com.
Tickets can be ordered for this Friday's June 15th, Battle Creek Knights home game vs. the Holland Blast, tip off time 7:15 p.m. by calling the Knights team offices at 269-965-5001 or by stopping in to the Knights team offices at McCamly Place.

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INDONESIA

Indonesia national team trounced Beijing five -by Hector Santos
Indonesia NT is now sending signal to its Asian rival that it should not be taken for granted after beating Beijing China (72-70) in the 2007 Sister City Basketball Tournament in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The Indonesian national team, which placed second in 2007 SEABA Championship, is using this tournament as preparation for the coming FIBA Asia Men's Championship in Tokushima, Japan.

Faisal J Ahmad, Denny Sumargo (183-G-81), Youbel Sondakh, and Wendha Wijaya registered twin digits to aid the Indo five surged to its second straight win of the tournament which also assured the team a spot in the semi-finals.

Indonesia defeated Thailand (63-55) in its first game.

Indonesia NT will next face dangerous Manila, which is represented by Emilio Aguinaldo College.

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ISRAEL

Bynum stays in Maccabi -by Elad Zeevi
Maccabi Tel-Aviv decided to keep their talented guard, Will Bynum (180-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech), for two more years. after adjusting to the European basketball in the last season (which was his first outside the U.S), Bynum produced some solid performances toward the end of the year, and helped Maccabi to retain their championship. Maccabis new coach, Oded Katash, didn't hide his admiration of Bynum's abilities, and requasted from the management to give the player a contract extansion.

*****************************************************
IVORY COAST

New Ivoirien sensation! -by Elvis Dickson
PATRICK DJA KONAN, an Ivory Coast player who was the best up-coming player last season in
Ivory Coast league is presently in Florida, the United States. he talked a little on his
career and his ambitions. excepts....

Okay I playing for THE ROCK SCHOOL ( High school) of Gainesville in
Florida.
I was freshman and I will be sophomore next season, I play also for a
AAU
team who is NIKE TEAM FLORIDA, and I played very well in the nationals
tournament in Virginia and in Tennessee. I played guard and small
forward, I
have "6,5" and 190 pounds. I dunked on two players in a hard game and
it
was my best game with 27 pts , 12 rebs and 3 assists. I get also the
trophet
ALL TOURNAMENT at Fort Myers. I have 16 years old. And we started the
summer
team camp with my High school and I was at 17 points . The next game is thursday.

*****************************************************
JAMAICA

Slayers edge Knights to open new NBL season -by Leonard Whyte

Defending champions St. George's Slayers survived a scare from nemesis Urban Knights, escaping with a 55-54 victory as the Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)/National Basketball League (NBL) tipped off its 2007 season last night at the National Arena. The league continues this evening with newcomers Majesty Gardens facing Tivoli All-Stars at 6:00 p.m. and Arnett Gardens taking on Harbour View Lakers at 7:45 p.m. at the National Stadium courts.

Down by as many as 11 points in the third quarter, Slayers came roaring back in their usual fashion to cut the lead to 52-50 before a timely three-pointer from Leon Chung put them on top 53-52 for the first time since early in the first quarter. The lead was short-lived, however, as Linton Murray's layup put Knights back in front with 0.20 seconds left. The champion's never-say-die attitude chipped in and Kali McCarthy found a wide open Rohan Robinson under the basket for the winning basket. Robinson led Slayers with 12 points while Murray had a game-high 17 points in a losing effort for Knights. Andrew Whilby added 13 points also for Knights.



Majestic Gardens victorious in debut -by Leonard Whyte
Majestic Gardens, playing their first game in the Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)/National Basketball League (NBL) stunned former champions Tivoli All-Stars 73-59 last night at the National Stadium courts. Majestic, who led 41-32 at half time, were led by Barrington Berry with a game-high 22 points and 14 rebounds, followed by Baldon Todd with 15 points, and Kemar McLeish with 13 points. Tivoli was led by Paul Oliphant and Damion Young with 12 points each. In the night's other game, Arnett Gardens continued their last season improvement when they beat Harbor View Lakers 69-53 behind 16 points from Delano Mallett and 13 points and 11 rebounds from Arnel Campbell. Kennardo Wright 15 points and Christopher Manderson 10 points, eight rebounds and six steals led the Lakers.

*****************************************************
JORDAN

Latest news -by Mohammed Malas
# Najjar leaves Arena Amman

Head coach of Arena Amman Gheith Najjar announced that he decided to resign from the club and leave the team for good.

Asia-Basket had asked coach gheith about the reasons of leaving.....

1- Coach, Can you tell us the main reason of resigning from Arena Amman?

It is sad after all these years to decide to leave the team but because of the unprofessionalism I had to face from the president of the club which made it very hard for me to continue with them.

2- What about the club's future in general?

From my experience with them the future does not look promising i say this with my heart full with sadness considering my years of hard work with the club as you know I have been with them from day one starting 2002, all I can say that I wish them all the luck.

3- Will the players effect from this matter?

Definitely, the players does not need this kind of change at this time, and this will hinder them in their preparation for the next season .

4- What is your next destination coach? Do you have any idea about your future?

It wasn't my plan to go to any other team, as I said I left due to problems with the management, but now all is possible I will study the offers I will receive this time with patience.
But now my newly established sports agency with my partner in the united states (Team Unity sports agency) was invited by the Qatar federation to bring all American team to participate in Qatar international tournament for the national teams from 23-29 June , and we are going there to play and win, wish us luck..

# ASU Sports Club adds a new player

Arena Amman's guard Louai Najjar (192-G-80) had agreed terms to join ASU Sports Club (Applied Science University) club before few days for the next season.

Najjar whose contract expired last month looks for a more successful career with ASU Sports Club which will be a big team in the future due to the big care from its president mr Haitham Abu Khadeejeh and his working staff as they're now in D2 and had a good plan for developing the newly established team in future.

The team is so near from signning with Orthodox's center Abdalla Abu Koura who expressed his interest in moving to the team and lead them to Excellent League next seasont.

*****************************************************
KOSOVO

The second referees' clinic started -by Edona Shabani
Yesterday in the center for public security in Vushtrri, started the second basketball referees' clinic.
This cliic which is obligatory to all referees under the age of 30 will be presented by Mehdi Gashi, whilst in some of the days of this clinic to lecture are going to be as well Hajrein Zeka dhe Hektor Grezd.
This second clinic will end on Friday June 15, 2007 and he referees who participated in this clinic will referee the “Summer Basketball League University Victory”.

The third clinic which is obligatory for all BFK referees, will take place on June 16 and 17 in the Center for Public Security in Vushtrri.
To present the third clinic are going to be FIBA referees, Albi Greva and Ervin Koci from Albania.

Source: www.fbk-ks.com

Ended the second coaches clinic -by Edona Shabani
Yesterday ended the second basketball coaches' clinic which was organized by Coaches Commission of BFK.

In this six day clinic which was held in the Physical Culture and Sports Faculty in Prishtina participated around 40 kosovar coaches.
The clinic was lead by the well-known Turkish coach Ali Burgul, whereas the program consisted of its theoretical and practical working parts.

The third coaches' clinic will take place on Wednesday June 20th 2007, where to lecture in this clinic for kosovar basketball coaches and also for referees' is going to be FIBA Slovenian referee MR. Istok Rems.


SOURCE: www.fbk-ks.com

*****************************************************
LITHUANIA

Offseason news -by Aleksandr Grigonis
Sakalai: Rimas Kurtinaitis stays in his place, he re-signed contract with Vilnius "Sakalai", and will coach this team in next season.

Siauliai: "Siauliai" has new coach, the former team player Robertas Giedraitis. He was assistent of Aloyzas Rudys last season. Siauliai & Aloyzas Rudys had separeted their ways.

Lietuvos Rytas: Lietuvos Rytas signed contract with Holliss Price, last season, he played in Spanish ACB league, scoring 10.8 for Sevilla CSF.





*****************************************************
LUXEMBOURG

We heard the rest now lets hear the best, -by Alexis Kreps
My picks,
It's been a while since I posted but I'm back to give my version of the year end honors
2007 DBBL champions BBC Sparta Bertrange proving that they are the team of Luxembourg
2007 Cup of Luxembourg Champions Etzella Ettelbruck Finishing far better than expected
Player of the year: Larrie Smith (195-F-75, college: Tennessee Tech) again dominating
Guard of the year: Nelson Delgado (185-G-80) putting up better numbers than most imports
Forward of the year: Larrie Smith nuff said
Center of the year: James Peters (203-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: UNLV) One of only three true centers in the country
Import player of the year: Larrie Smith nuff said
Domestic player of the year: Nelson Delgado
Newcomer of the year: Sam Ney (194-F-87) Last year played 2nd Div.
Most improved player of the year: Frank Muller (195-F), this guy keeps getting better and better
Offensive player of the year: Chris Martin (200-F-83, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Elmhurst) Looks like a Lacrosse player shoots like Rex Chapman
Coach of the Year: Rick Brooks and Carsten Steiner , These two coaches have shown what real coaches do.
These of course are the local honors but of course we can't forget about the Lux-players abroad. If these guys played here they would surely monopolize these awards. Peter Rajniak (205-F-78, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Cal.St.-Bakersfield) and Martin Rajniak (205-F-78, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Cal.St.-Bakersfield) both had progressive season's bright careers for their future. Alvin Jones (211-C-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) bounced around the top level of Europe basketball and had a few stellar games before the disappointing ending. We will look for great things to come from all three of these guys next season. A preview of their talents will be on display in Grengewald July 19th as the Luxembourg National Team matches up against players from all around the world at The Luxbasket free agent camp 2007.
One more quick add all of Luxembourg basketball has to be really excited and happy to welcome back the one and only Philippe Giberti a legend in his own time. Winning and Giberti are synonymous.

*****************************************************
MALAYSIA

NBL Selection Team Roster to Jakarta Invitation -by Chong Jzen

NBL Selection team roster for Sister City basketball tournament, Jakarta, Indonesia

Name Height Position Team
Lau Er Kheng 178cm G Klang WCT Land
Wee Chuan Chin 180cm G Klang WCT Land
Hong Kah Hau 186cm G Melaka Chinwoo
Chai Chze Hian 180cm G Melaka Chinwoo
Tee Chun Guan 187cm F YSL

John Ng Yew Seng 190cm F Klang WCT Land

Francis Loh Hoo Won 190cm C/F Melaka Chinwoo

Chin Choon Siong 195cm C/F YSL

Toh Chin Thiam 193cm C/F YSL

Auyong Kah Weng 188cm C/F YSL

average height:186.7cm(6-2)



Seoul University wallops Malaysia -by Hector Santos

Kuala Lumpur, represented by Malaysia's NBL selection, failed to pass its first assignment via a 68-97 loss to favorite Seoul team, represented by mighty Seoul University, in the 2007 Sister City Tournament in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Yang Woo-sub, Cha Jae-young, Ha Jae-pil and Bang Kyeung-soo combined for a total of 66 points to pilot the South Korean surge.

Seoul made14 of their 31 three-point shot for a terrific 45 percent off the arch shooting.

Chin Choon Siong, John Ng Yeo Seng and Malaysian national team member Francis Loh Hoo Won led the Kuala Lumpur squad after dishing 18 ,14 and 10 points a piece.

Kuala Lumpur will try to bounce back against Istanbul (June 13).



*****************************************************
MEXICO

WANT TO PLAY IN MEXICO? LNBP SHOWCASE COMING TO SAN DIEGO -by Justin Brink
That's right, the LNBP (Liga Nacional de Baloncesto Profesional), Mexico's top professional basketball league is coming to San Diego this August 8th and 9th looking to SIGN American and Mexican American players! You must be 18 or older to attend this showcase is held exclusively for the LNBP and it's 24 franchises which opens it's 2007 season September 6th. While NCAA and pro experience is helpful, it is not necessary. The Showcase will be held at Alliant International University, Scipps Ranch Campus, 10455 Pomerado Road in San Diego, CA. The registration fee is $150 and is due no later than July 16th, credit cards and PayPal payments are also accepted. For complete registration information along with the player release form please visit, www.enfuegohoops.com.

Defense Key to Mexican NT's 4th Win in a Row -by Justin Brink
Team Mexico eventually squeaked by the Phoenix Stars last night, 94-92, to notch their fourth victory in a row under new head coach Nolan Richardson. Horacio Llamas (211-C-73, agency: Interperformances), Mexico's most experienced player, with an a short stint in the NBA stint and an LNBP Championship under his belt, contends that Richardson's style, up tempo with tough defensive pressure, is the difference so far. A new attitude coupled with a burning desire to rise to the top of the hoops heap in Latin America and the world is what is driving Llamas and Team Mexico towards a possible birth at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. Is team Mexico ready for the challenge that will pit the top teams in the America's against each other at the FIBA Americas tournament in Las Vegas this August? We'll have to wait and see but if Richardson can translate '40 minutes of Hell' into Spanish, Mexico's NT will be in hog heaven when they secure their first trip to the Olympics in the new millenium.

*****************************************************
MOROCCO

FUS x ASS and WAC x MAS the semi finals -by Carlos Pereira
The last round of the play off phase is end , and are known de semi finalists.

Results
ASS - WAC : 84-57
MAS - FUS : 71-68

Standing:

Poule « A »

1) WAC : 7 pts (0,986)

2) ASS : 6 pts (1,103)

3) TSC : 5 pts (0,917)

Poule « B »

1) FUS : 6 pts (0,019)

2) MAS : 6 pts (1,004)

3) RCA : 6 pts (0,978)

Semi-finals (first)

Rabat - Salle Ibn Yacine
FUS - ASS

Casablanca - Salle WACWAC - MAS

*****************************************************
NBA

Spurs defeat Cavs in Cleveland bringinf the final series to 3-0 -by Eurobasket
San Antonio Spurs managed to get the 3rd straight victory in the final series. This time they defeated Cavaliers in Cleveland after a very exciting game 75-72 and jumped in the finals series to 3-0 lead. They need just one more victory to get another championship title.
Bruce Bowen (6'7''-F-71, college: Cal.St. Fullerton), the defensive stopper, emerged as an unlikely offensive star as the Spurs moved within one win of their fourth championship in nine years with a 75-72 win over the Cavaliers on Tuesday night to take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series.
And they did it with only two-thirds of their Big 3 doing what they usually do in one of the lowest-scoring games in finals history.
Tony Parker scored 17 points and Tim Duncan had 14, but Manu Ginobili, who scored 25 in Game 2, had just three -- all free throws in the final 10.4 seconds -- to hold off the Cavaliers and crush the hopes of their towel-waving crowd, who had never before seen their team play a finals game in person.
Cleveland's chances, and maybe their last hopes of extending the season ended when LeBron James, who led the Cavaliers with 25 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, was short with a 3-pointer in the final seconds.
Bowen, who had just nine points in the first two games, scored 13 and Brent Barry made three 3-pointers for the Spurs, who can all but plan their victory parade as no team has ever overcome an 0-3 deficit.
The Spurs can wrap up their third title in five years with a win in Game 4 on Thursday night. If they do complete the eighth sweep in finals history, they'll join the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Bulls as the only franchises to win four or more titles.
The grind-it-out game tied for the second fewest points in NBA finals history.
Courtesy of Yahoo.com

Finals Game 3: San Antonio Spurs - Cleveland Cavaliers 75-72 (16-18, 24-20, 15-12)
Spurs: Parker 17+5reb, Duncan 14+9reb, Bowen 13+9reb, Barry 9, Finley 7, Oberto 6, Horry 3, Ginobili 3+5reb, Vaughn 2, Elson 1
Cavs: James 25+8reb+7ast, Gooden 13+12reb, Pavlovic 13, Ilgauskas 12+17reb (!!!), Varejao 4, Jones 3, Gibson 2, Snow 0, Marshall 0

*****************************************************
NCAA2

Alaska Fairbanks Scores Big With Recruits -by Sanjey Noriega
By Matias Saari, Staff Writer
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner


Periodically the Alaska Nanooks pick up basketball players from Europe, but never before have they enlisted a prospect from Central America.

That's about to change with the recent signing of Roger Munoz, a post player from Nicaragua who's spent the past two seasons playing junior college ball in Texas.

"I think I can bring a lot of athleticism to the team. I expect to be a good shot blocker and rebounder and probably make some power plays, catch a few dunks. I expect to play good defense too," Munoz said Wednesday from Athens, Texas, where he's competed the past two years at Trinity Valley Community College. "I am pretty excited. I hope I can make an impact on the team right away."

Munoz, 6-foot-9 and 205 pounds, said he'll spend the summer in Los Angeles and back home in Managua, Nicaragua, lifting weights and working on his game. Munoz will arrive in Fairbanks in early September with two years of eligibility remaining and will join a frontcourt likely to include Steven Sandles, Michael Anderson (who redshirted this season) and 6-9 recruit John Clark of Wrangell.

Munoz's statistics last season -- 1.3 points and 1.5 rebounds per game in 17 contests -- are hardly eye-catching as he was a role player on a program that is sending three other players to Division II programs. Former Nanook Bogdan Popescu also attended TVCC in 1998-99.

But Alaska coach Frank Ostanik sees a high upside, likening Munoz to former Nanook frontliner Jason Williams when he first arrived at UAF.

"I think he's just scratching the surface as to where he could be," Ostanik said Tuesday from Seattle while on a recruiting trip in the Pacific Northwest. "We were very impressed. He's ready to contribute defensively and as a rebounder. He'll take some time offensively."

Munoz, who also considered attending Southwest Oklahoma State, was swayed by the welcome he received while visiting Fairbanks last month. Munoz, who came to America in 2004 and whose immediate family still lives in Nicaragua, said the coldest place he's previously been is Kentucky.

"It's all about playing ball and getting my education," Munoz, 23, said of coming to the 49th state, where he may study business administration.

Ostanik, enticed by Munoz's height and potential, said he believes Munoz will be the first Central American to play for the Nanooks.

The Nanooks had a short bench with just eight players much of the 2006-07 campaign, but a shortage of numbers shouldn't be repeated as Ostanik expects to start next season with at least 15 players.

In addition to a quartet of high school seniors from Alaska who have signed to join the team, the Nanooks will also be adding Mladen Begojevic, a native of Ruma, Serbia, who played two years at New Mexico Junior College in Hobbs, N.M. In 2005-06, the 6-5, 210-pound guard/forward averaged 8.1 points and 2.6 rebounds per game.

Initially, the Nanooks were hoping Begojevic could join the team for the 2006-07 season's second semester, Ostanik said.

Instead, Begojevic has practiced with the squad and observed from the bench during games.

"He got here in January and has been a part of everything we've done since then. It's very valuable. It gives him great perspective," Ostanik said. "He intends to stay here this summer."

Ostanik calls Begojevic a "classic European kid," a spot-up shooter with good range.

"It's hard to find guys who can shoot. He has the mentality to shoot," Ostanik said.

UC San Diego hires Carlson as men's basketball coach -by Eurobasket News
UC San Diego on Monday announced the hiring of UCLA assistant Chris Carlson as men's basketball coach.

Carlson, 37, replaces Bill Carr who posted a 38-45 record in his three seasons at helm before leaving to become the associate head coach at the University of San Diego.

"We are very excited to have Chris join our staff and lead our men's basketball program," director of athletics Earl W. Edwards said. "He comes from a winning tradition and brings a tremendous amount of knowledge to us from his vast experiences at the Division-I level. I have no doubt that he will take this program to a new level of success."

Carlson becomes the 11th men's basketball coach in the 42-year history of the program and only the third to lead the program at the NCAA Division II level. He is also the third UCLA assistant to be named as a head coach in the last two years.

"I'm very thankful and appreciative for my experience at UCLA and thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Bruin family," Carlson said. "The opportunity to be the head coach at UCSD is a special one that also affords me the opportunity to return home."
Courtesy of:http://www.sbrforum.com

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NCAA3

Men's Basketball Coach Duane Sheldon Appointed Interim Athletic Director -by Eurobasket News
Press Release posted by Heidelberg
Heidelberg College men's basketball coach Duane Sheldon has been appointed the interim director of athletics, effective July 2.

Sheldon will replace Jerry McDonald, who resigned as the director of athletics in May following five years of overseeing the athletic department. McDonald will continue to serve the Heidelberg community as assistant professor and chairman of the Health and Physical Education Department.

“Duane has shown a great commitment to Heidelberg through his position as our men's basketball coach and we are excited for his enthusiasm he brings to the department,” stated Heidelberg's Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Jim Troha. “He is very well respected by his colleagues and we are looking forward to the many contributions that he will bring.”

Heading into his appointment as interim director of athletics, Sheldon is excited about his opportunity and looks to continue to further develop the department. “I am excited about this opportunity to help lead the athletic department and I am looking forward to working with a great coaching staff. The athletic department has made some positive strides and we want to do everything we can to continue that momentum.”

Sheldon recently completed his fifth year at the helm of the men's basketball program at Heidelberg. He led the Berg to an overall record of 13-13 and a 9-9 mark in the Ohio Athletic Conference. Sheldon guided Heidelberg to its 45th appearance in the OAC Tournament and first since 2004. Aside from the team's success in 2006-07, Ron Higgins became the 24th player in the history of the program to score 1,000 points. Higgins was the first recruit who Sheldon brought in after taking over the reigns during the 2002-03 season.

In August of 2002, Sheldon was appointed the 18th head coach of the men's basketball program. In five years, Sheldon owns an overall record of 42-87 and a 25-65 record versus OAC foes.

Prior to coming to Heidelberg, Sheldon was an assistant basketball coach at Baldwin-Wallace College from 1999-2002. He helped lead the Yellow Jackets among the nation's elite, ranking as high as eighth.

Sheldon continually strives to improve the men's basketball program and will carry the same winning attitude through the entire athletic department. “We will not be complacent and will strive to improve in as many areas as possible until a new athletic director is announced.”
Courtesy of:http://www.d3hoops.com

D-III alum to run Supersonics -by Eurobasket News
Former Emerson player Sam Presti was named general manager of the Seattle Supersonics on Thursday, June 7. He had been vice president and assistant GM for the San Antonio Spurs.

"I am extremely pleased to welcome Sam Presti to the Sonics as our new general manager," Sonics chairman Clay Bennett said in a team release. "He represents a new generation of NBA executives. He brings solid NBA management and basketball experience as well as a new, fresh, energetic approach. I am confident we are hiring the right person at the right time for this organization."

Presti, who was featured in Around the Nation in January 2004, joined the San Antonio Spurs in 2000 and was named the team's basketball special assistant after a year. In September 2002, he was promoted to assistant director of scouting. Presti was named the Spurs director of player personnel in September 2003 and became assistant GM two years later. During his time with the Spurs, they made the playoffs every season and won two NBA championships.

D3hoops.com All-American Rob Hennigan, also an Emerson grad, remains with the team as operations assistant.
Presti led the design and implementation of the Spurs scouting database, a system that is now being used by numerous teams throughout the NBA.

He earned his bachelor's degree in 2000 in communications, politics and law from Emerson, becoming the first Rhodes Scholar nominee in the history of the school. Presti, who averaged 14 points per game for Emerson, helped lead the Lions to 39 wins in two seasons.

"I am thrilled with the opportunity to join the Sonics organization," Presti said. "I am sold on the ownership and am convinced they are committed to building a successful team and organization. I look forward to developing a culture and defining an identity for the future of Sonics basketball. We want to initiate a process and institute a plan that will result in sustained success for the team and our fans. We need to define this franchise as one built on professionalism, teamwork and integrity."
Courtesy of:http://www.d3hoops.com/

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NEW ZEALAND

Jeremiah Trueman will play for the Seawolves -by Eurobasket News
Tall Blacks forward Jeremiah Trueman (206-F-87) will start next season with the Anchorage University of Alaska basketball team. He spent last two years playing for the San Diego Christian College. There Trueman averaged 6.8 points and 5.0 rebounds per game. He helped the San Diego Christian College to appear in the NAIA National Tournament. Last season Trueman's stats came up to 7.6 points and 5.7 rebounds and San Diego claimed the GSAC title.
Jeremiah Trueman tasted an international action as he was the part of the Junior Tall Blacks in the 2005 Australian Youth Olympic Festival. In 2006 he recorded the first appearance for the New Zealand National squad in the test series against the Boomers. Alaska Anchorage is an NCAA Division II programme that plays in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference. The Seawolves are coming off back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances.

Brooks no more -by Eurobasket News
American Kevin Brooks has been stood down as coach from Century City Wellington Saints' final regular season outing of the Dominion Finance NBL, effectively ending his rocky relationship with the franchise.
Saints management issued a release citing “disappointing results on the court this season and, in particular, the latest two heavy loses to Harbour Heat and Manawatu Jets” as the reason for Brooks' removal for the home encounter against Blue Chip Nelson Giants on Thursday.
“The Saints organisation feel we owe our sponsors and our loyal supporters this change to try and bring some fresh ideas and new motivation to the team to finish the season on a higher note as possible.”
Brooks contract with the 9-8 Saints officially expires after the game and he will return to Australia as assistant coach of the Wollongong Hawks in the Philips Championship. He will not seek reappointment as Saints coach next season.
NZ Junior Tall Blacks coach Kenny McFadden will be promoted from his assistant's role and former international Frank Mulvihill has been called in to help his former Saints team-mate prepare the team against Nelson.
“Both Kenny and Frank have long and proud associations with the organisation. It is hoped the influence of these past championship winners will provide current players with the motivation and desire to finish 2007 on a high note for their loyal sponsors and supporters.”
Courtesy of: www.basketball.org.nz

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NIGERIA

City league Final-4: Union Bank battles Warriors, as Comets take on Bullets -by Olusegun Ikuesan
The 3rd edition of the Lagos City league enter a crucial stage Wednesday as the four surviving teams (Union Bank, Dodan, Ebun Comets and Kennys' Bullets) battle for a grand finale tickets.

The four teams emerged after seeing off their quarter-finals opponents last weekend at the sports hall of the Lagos National Stadium with Union Bank beating Warriors Academy 100-63 of (24-23, 21-10, 29-20 and 26-10) with Union Bank versatile guard Cameroon-born William Ndoumbe leading the floor with 20 points while the trio of Kingsley Aguara, Azuoma Dike and Rasheed Bello contributed 14, 12 and 10 points respectively for the bankers. Warriors Academy's forward Olaide Adeogun netted 17 points for his side with guard Adeola Ajayi scoring 14 points.

The quarter-final match between Dodan Warriors and Chariot was a classics with Warriors coordinator Col. Sam Ahmedu (Rtd) taking charge of affairs on the bench leading the Warriors to a 78-76 points win over the Chariot (18-21, 26-20, 14-21 and 20-14), Warriors trio of forward Michael Uma-Okoro, guards Ibrahim Adamu and Edwin Jerry contributed 15 points each with Nosa Omorogbe having his name on the scorers sheet with 12 points to set up the stage against Union Bank in the opening game of the final-4, while Chariot Okechukwu Anonye's 14 points was not enough to save his side from defeat.

Ebun Comets basketball club almost bite the dust in its quarter-final match against more determined Police Bombers basketball club who led from the blast of the referees' whistle only to give up in the dying minute of the action packed encounter with Comets forcing a tie on two ocassions in the fourth quarter (54-54) and (59-59) before Comets forward Dennis Ebikoro inflicted the most painful injury to the already open wound of the Bombers for a 60-59 points victory (08-15, 20-18, 13-16 and 19-10) with Bombers guard Kayode leading the floor with 22 points, Ebikro scored 20 points for the Comets while guard Ayodeji Egbeyemi whose repeated three-point shot brought Comets back into the game contributed 17 points.

The last quarter-final match between former Premier league champion, Islanders and City league defending champion Kennys' Bullets was a real battle as the Toyin Sonoiki Islanders did not want to give in to newly formed Bullets a third time having lost twice to the Ogoh Odaudu and Lateef Folami tutored Bullets during the regular season of the league.

It was a game the Bullets players playing without its inspirational off-guard Abdulrahman Mohammed, but relied on the experience of former Comets captain, Baba Jibril to see them through the difficult match which they won by 68-60 points of 20-11, 14-14, 15-14 and 19-21 to book a place in the final-4 with Jibril and Samson John scoring 19 points apiece for the Bullets while Nigeria U19 national team invitee point guard Michael Ohiero netting 13, Islanders Chiwendu Nwaigbo who was formerly with the Bullets led his teammates on the scorers chat with 15points with forward Azeez Oladimeji contributing 10 points for his side.

Comets and Bullets will take to the court in game-2 of the final-4 series at 4.00pm Wednesday with all four team observing Thursday as rest day while hostilities will resume on Friday with Comets battling Dodan Warriors at 2.00pm and Bullets taking on Union Bank at 4.00pm.

The final-4 series will climax on Sunday with Union Bank taking on Comets while Warriors and Bullets will lock horn at 4.00pm with the two top teams starting a Best-of-3-Game series from Thursday, June 21, a new innovation which has receive commendation from lovers of the game.


Final-4 Pairing:

Wednesday: 13/06/07

Union Bank Vs Dodan Warriors - 2.00pm

Ebun Comets Vs Kenneys' Bullets - 4.00pm

Friday: 15/06/07

Ebun Comets Vs Dodan Warriors - 2.00pm

Kennys' Bullets Vs Union Bank - 4.00pm

Sunday: 17/06/07

Union Bank Vs Ebun Comets - 2.00pm

Dodan Warriors Vs Kennys' Bullets - 4.00pm

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PHILIPPINES

Emilio Aguinaldo College beats Thailand cagers (71-63); to face top seed Indonesian National Team next -by Hector Santos
Manila, which is represented by Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) Generals junked Thailand team in the on going 2007 Sister City Basketball Tournament in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Ron Jason Buenafe led the attack of the Manila boys by scoring 25 points. Alain Musni, John Balderama and Gester Ebuen slashed 18, 11, and 11 points, respectively to help the Generals notched its first win.

Thailand national team members that saw action in the recent SEABA Men's Championship in Ratchaburi, Thailand, Sopon Pinipatcharalert and Jakkrapan Sillapapipat forefronted the Thai five scourge by scoring 23 and 15 respectively.

It was an easier sailing in the first half after the Generals posed a 45-30 lead during the half-time.

The Generals lost its first game against Beijing China, 90-84, behind the heroic act of Gester Ebuen (191-F) which scored 30 points.

It will be an uphill task for the Generals in its final preliminary assignment as it will next face the unbeaten Indonesian national team tomorrow (June 13). The Generals should win against Indonesian national team to move on to the crossover semi-finals.

The Indonesian national team, which will be bannered by players that placed second in 2007 SEABA Championship, is using this tournament as preparation for the coming FIBA Asia Men's Championship in Tokushima, Japan.

Sister City Basketball Tournament this year attracted 7 cities from Asia.

Seoul, Istanbul, Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur consists Group B while and Beijing, Bangkok and Manila for Group A with Indonesian national team as the guest team.

Williams committed to play for RP Team - SLR Team Manager Encarnado -by Hector Santos
Reacting to Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner Noli Eala's statement that his commitment to the RP team is in doubt, Kelly Williams (196-F, college: Oakland) of Sta. Lucia Realty clarified that he is committed to play for the national cage team.

In a statement sent Tuesday through Sta. Lucia representative to the PBA board Buddy Encarnado, Williams said that he merely wants to a short vacation after an exhausting stint in the ongoing PBA Fiesta Cup, wherein the Realtors bowed out of the competition.

Williams added that he will suit up for the national team after his vacation and will train with the squad before the FIBA-Asia championship in Tokushima, Japan next month.

"Kelly is the workhorse of the team and he's really tired. He wants just a two-week rest, after which he's glad to join the RP team," Encarnado said.

"I had relayed the matter to Commissioner Noli Eala even before the national team left for Belgrade. Kelly's not turning his back on the RP team," Encarnado added.

Credits to GMANews.TV

GETTING TOUGHER AND TALLER -by Benny Lirio

The first impression for our beloved national team in FIBA Qualifying in JAPAN is they can beat anybody here in Asia except maybe the powerhouse CHINA. With the line up presented are compose of PBA All Stars and more than half of it were born outside the Philippines or Fil - foreigner .Meaning they learned their basketball mainly in USA. And does it stopped there?


The forgettable finished of Centennial team in 1998 showed what we really got but excuses prevented them from the watchful eyes of disappointed basketball fanatics. Unfamiliarity of amateur basketball rules and a very short time in getting to know each other are the biggest reason why we were not on the top three.


And now, it seems the height is the most legitimate reason why we are struggling to be on top of this region. The presence of three or four seven-footers in other countries line up intimidated us a lot. It is also the excuse we got in Tehran, Iran, and it is probably the reason why Chot is considering slight changes in RP line - up with tall players who can run and the first thing in his mind are Williams, Norwood and Anthony Washington (206-C, college: Portland St.)


As the Chinese paraded a seven-footers decades ago, putting the ball on the rim is hardest thing for them to do. It is not the situation anymore as they have a seven foot- five giant with very soft touch of the ball plus a couple of walking and running walls.


To make things worst, we are now bracketed with Iran, Jordan and China. The group of WALLS which is considered by Coach Reyes as “ Group of Death”. Gone are the days being anxious to be bracketed against the Koreans and Chinese. The Middle East countries have proven to be part of the elite group.


All the teams are team to beat. They are tougher and bigger, and the only assurance is that we have a bigger heart. For many of us here in the Phils, we are better and we can give them a tough fight and like Ed said , lets give them hell.

.



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POLAND

Wojcik not in Prokom Trefl -by Michal Falkowski
Adam Wojcik (207-F-70, agency: Beo Basket) won't play for Prokom Trefl Sopot in the 2007/2008 season. The decision has been made by Wojcik himself but it is known that the board of Prokom hasn't been so willing to extend the contract with Polish NT member. The situation complicated so much when playing on Wojcik's position Filip Dylewicz agreed all terms of his contract. Wojcik, one of the best Polish players ever, spent full three years in Prokom Trefl Sopot achieving three golden medals year by year.

Chudeusz is the headcoach of Kotwica -by Michal Falkowski
Jerzy Chudeusz has signed the one-year deal with Polpharma Starogard Gdanski. Last season Chuduesz took the office of the headcoach in Kotwica Kolobrzeg at the beginning of January after Mariusz Karol. He had the bilance 4 winners to 9 defeats when the regular season ended but in play-out serie his team won 8-of-10 games and finished the season on the 10th position. Chudeusz worked in his career in Slask Wroclaw, Czarni Slupsk and Notec Inowroclaw.

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PUERTO RICO

Lions win under new Head Coach -by Luis Ramirez
Coaching his first game as Head Coach of the Ponce Lions, Allans Colon got his first win when the Lions beat the Bayamon Cowboys 88-86. The Cowboys seemed intent in taking the game from the Lions as the 1st quarter ended in favor of Bayamon 24-17. As the 1st half came to a close the Cowboys were dominating the Lions 44-33. In the 3rd quarter the Lions came out with much better defense and started to trim the Cowboy's lead and at the end of the 3rd quarter the game was tied at 62 points. In the 4th quarter it was a see-saw of a battle as both teams turn turns taking the lead but in the final minutes of the game it was Joel Jones (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Sacramento St.) who's 3 pointer gave the Lions a breather and later on 2 free throws from Robert Lazor sealed the victory for the Lions. For Ponce, Jeff Aubry (205-C-76, agency: Edge Sports, college: Cornell) scored 22 points and grabbed 16 rebounds followed by Joel Jones with 21 points. For Bayamon Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83, agency: Edge Sports) scored 20 points followed by Carlos Escalera (190-G-79, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Missouri Southern) with 16 points.

In other BSN action, the San German Athletics beat the Humacao Grays 116-87. San German took the lead right in the 1st quarter 31-23 and also led at the half 61-41. In the 2nd half the Athletics continued to pour it on and easily build an insurmountable lead for the win. For San German, DeMarco Johnson (204-F-75, college: Charlotte) scored 27 points while Rick Apodaca (192-G-80, agency: World Sport Agency, college: Hofstra) scored 22 points. For Humacao, Roberto Nieves (194-G-82, college: Valparaiso) scored 23 points followed by Miguel Ali Berdiel (198-G-83, college: Valparaiso) with 18 points and 9 assists.

In the last game of the night, the Santurce Crabbers beat the Guayama Brujos 112-89. Guayama took the 1st quarter 24-20 but the Crabbers came right back in the 2nd quarter to take the lead at the end of the 1st half 50-48. In the 2nd half the Crabbers proved too much for the Brujos as they hit bomb after bomb from the 3 point line to pull away for an easy win. For Santurce, Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Edge Sports, college: USC) scored 25 points followed by Orlando Santiago (186-G-75, college: Dowling) with 20 points. For Guayama it was Wilfredo Pagan (184-G-76) with 23 points followed by Erick Rodriguez (190-G-79) with 17 points.

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ROMANIA

Ramnicu Valcea stays in the 1st Division. -by Simona Birtas
CS Targovistei and CSS BC Ramnicu Valcea made it into Division A next season, after they clinched the first 2 position at the Targoviste qualifying tournament. West Petrom Arad is out for good.

The results of the tournament were:
First day:
CSS UNIVERSITATEA Craiova - BC Râmnicu Vâlcea 60- 100
CS Targoviste - ENERGIA Rovinari 68- 56

Second day:
BC Râmnicu Vâlcea - ENERGIA Rovinari 82- 64
CS Targoviste - CSS UNIVERSITATEA Craiova 97- 55

Last day:
ENERGIA Rovinari - CSS UNIVERSITATEA Craiova 70- 77
CS Targoviste - BC Râmnicu Vâlcea 81- 93.

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SERBIA

Crvena Zvezda and Partizan are in the final of play-off !! -by Dragan Jankovski

Crvena Zvezda succeeded to finish semifinal series with 2-0 against Hemofarm so eternal rivals will fight for Serbian title in the play-off final!! Red and white team beat Hemofarm in game #2 91:81 in Belgrade. They had fantastic support of their fans during the whole game. Zvezda's superstar Milan Gurovic (207-F-76, agency: Beo Basket)'s 3-point shot 51 seconds before the end for 81:74 resolved question about second finalist and destroyed hopes of Hemofarm that they can fight for Euroleague for next season. Gurovic also was MVP of the game netting 37 points and grabbing 9 rebounds with index value 38. Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) scored 13 including 6 rebounds for Crvena Zvezda while Hemofarm got double - double 16 points and 12 rebounds from center Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket).

.

Crvena Zvezda - Hemofarm 91:81

(23:22,17:14,18:23,33:22)

.

Crvena Zvezda: Stewart, Markovic 10, Popovic 2, Kovacevic 3, Misanovic 5, Gurovic 37 (9 rebs), Radivojevic 6 (6 as), Dragicevic 4 (7 rebs), Antic 13 (6 rebs), Cvetkovic 8, Aleksandrov 3

DNP: Kovac.

Hemofarm: Bakic 10, Joksimovic 4, Suput 13, Markovic 7, Nesovic 11, Radinovic 8 (4 rebs), Topic 5, Borisov 3, Simonovic 4, Plisnic, Vukosavljevic 16 (12 rebs)

DNP: Rakic.



Vojvodina Srbijagas kept Mavrenski as head coach -by Nenad Ilijev
Ivica Mavrenski will stay head coach of Vojvodina Srbijagas for another season. The Tulips have ambition to reach European Cups playing Adriatic League in next season so Mavrenski already made shortlist of possible reinforcements. Six players from this year roster are free agents (Scekic, Jovanovic, Nemeth, Djordjevic, Bosnjak, Kovacevic) but Board members are interested to keep most of them for the future.

Zoran Krstanovic signed in Romania -by Dragan Jankovski
Power forward / center Zoran Krstanovic (205-C-82), who had very good season in Hungarian BC Soproni, returned to his ex club BC Univer Mobitelco in Romania. Krstanovic played for the same team on season 05/06 and during the last month some teams from Holland showed interest for his service. Last season Krstanovic got prestigious award "The Hungarian League Center of the Year" by Eurobasket.com.

Aca Petrovic left Russia -by Dragana Vukovic
The famous Serbian coach Aco Petrovic resigned contract with Lokomotiv Rostov na Donu.He has already have numerous offers from Turkey,Spain and Israel.In a few days he will decided where he will continue his carrier.

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SLOVENIA

List of free agents -by Zeljko Zule

Helios: Sasa Doncic, Smiljan Pavic, Dario Krejic, Jure Mocnik.
Union Olimpija: Dwayne Lee, Marko Rakocevic, Slavko Duscak.

Geoplin Slovan: Davor Marcelic.
Zlatorog: Zan Vrecko, Bosko Stojakovic, Terry Williams, Jack Ingram, Slobodan Ocokoljic.

Alpos Sentjur: Mario Novak, Matej Krusic, Elvis Kadic.

Kraski zidar Jadran Kras: Martin Atanasovski, Samo Majerle.



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SPAIN

Barca will face Real in the finals -by Eurobasket
The final already known: two legendary teams Real Madrid and Winterthur FC Barcelona will meet in the ACB Final Series.
In the last semifinal games they defeated Joventut and Tau respectively.
Real Madrid did not have an easy game against Joventut in the Palacio Vistalegre, where almost 14,000 fans watched Real's close victory 65-61 over Joventut. The final result was not known till the last minute, where Real's leader Louis Bullock (186-G-76, college: Michigan) (total 16 points) was still getting free throws. He was helped by Raul Lopez (13), Felipe Reyes and Alex Mumbru (11 each). The top players for Joventut were Rudy Fernandez (15) and Elmer Bennett (13).
Contrary to Real's very close game, Winterthur FCB did not have big problems in the game against Tau Ceramica, getting easy victory 95-79. Gianluca Basile and Juan Carlos Navarro lead Barca with 24 and 23 points respectively. The top scorers for Tau were Serkan Erdogan (19), Luis Scola and Tiago Splitter (12 each).

Semifinals Game 3:
Real Madrid - Joventut Badalona 65-61 (Bullock 16, Lopez 13, Reyes 11, Mumbru 11, Moiso 5 - Fernandez 15, Bennett 13, Barton 9, Flis 7)
WFC Barcelona - Tau Ceramica 95-79 (Basile 24, Navarro 23, Grimau 10, Marconato 9, Vazquez 8 - Erdogan 19, Scola 12, Splitter 12)

Brian Boddicker signs with Grupo Capitol Valladolid -by Daniel Fernandez

Brian Boddicker (204-F-81, agency: EM-PA, college: Texas) has according the terms of a contract for the next season with Grupo Capito Valladolid. He will play with Bud Eley that recently extended for one more year his contract with the Valladolid Team's.

This season Brian Boddicker has played with Selcuk Universitesi Konya in the Turkish League when he was the top 2 scorer with 19.1 points per game.



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SYRIA

Exclusive...Sneed denies Syria's job!!! -by Mohammed Malas
American Head coach John Sneed has sent an e-mail to Asia-Basket recently dening what was mentioned in the syrian press about being hired as Syria National Team head coach.

Sneed said to Asia-Basket that he received just one call from the syrian basketball federation and after that he hear nothing and he is now available for any team who is interested in him.

This news will give a big shock for the syrian federation esspecially that they announced officially about signning with Sneed and the whole issue is untrue!!

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THAILAND

Thai five in a heartbreak loss to Chinese squad -by Hector Santos
Thailand cagers, represented by Bangkok Metropolitan Team, suffered another heartbreak setback, this time against Beijing China, represented by Beijing Tsinghua University, 59-54 in the 2007 Sister City Basketball Tournament in Jakarta, Indonesia.

It was a close fight since the start of the game wherein the Bangkok squad even managed to have a four point lead after the third quarter. However, Beijing's 18-9 attack in the fourth quarter made Thais bid in the tournament to sail away.

National team member Piyapong Piroon failed to lift the team in spite of gashing 20 points against the tall Chinese squad.

Zhang Huanyu and Liu Ziqiu led the Beijing assault by salvaging 18 and 13 points respectively.

This is the third straight for the Thais after downing to Indonesian national team and Manila.

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TURKEY

Blatt in touch with Efes -by Unsal Yilmaz

In some rumours which are undenied yet, Efes Pilsen Istanbul is linked with David Blatt , who left Benetton Treviso recently, after the firing of Oktay Mahmudi. It was stated that there are some other candidates like Tab Baldwin and Hakan Demir, but Blatt is the most possible one

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URUGUAY

Larre Borges tied 1-1 the playoff with Goes -by Hector Lopez
Larre Borges beat Goes 86-84, on the road, to tie 1-1 the best-of-three semifinal games of the Metro League, for a promotion to the Uruguayan League. Tabare is 1-0 in the other semifinal. Fernando Cabral (190-G) scored 13 points in the last quarter to lead Larre Borges. 'Pop' Thornton (201-F-74, college: W.Kentucky) scored 16 points and grabbed 9 rebunds for Larre. The best scorer for Goes was Juan Andres Cambon (180-G-88) with 19 points, plus 7 assists. Eric Cardenas (206-C-73, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Oklahoma Baptist) netted 13 for Goes and granbbed 6 rebounds. The final game Larre-Goes will be played next Friday.



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Women News

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BARBADOS - Women

Hoopsters and Barbados Combined drive to wins -by Eurobasket News
The BOA Women's Basketball competition continued with two games at the weekend. Hoopsters managed to secure a tough win over the Sonics 55:47. The Sonics kept it close at halftime 24:29, but the Hoopsters run away in the second half to record the victory. Richelle Farley provided 15 points for the winners. The Sonics replied with 12 points from Tammy Hope.
Barbados Combined defeated Team USA 72:57. And once again it was extremely close encounter in the first half with Combined taking a narrow lead 35:33. However the second half saw the Combined spur to a double-digit lead and grab impressive win. Shakira Shorey (-85) had 17 points for Barbados Combined. Danielle Peterson secured 19 points in a loss.

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BULGARIA - Women

Bojkov announced the squad -by Valentin Anguelov
The head coach of Women National team Georgi Bojkov announced the 15 names that will start preparation in Sofia on July 16.
It also became clear that the team will play the host games from the qualifications in Pernik.

Point guards:
Zornitsa Kostova (Lukoil Neftochimic)
Ekaterina Dimitrova (Mercede Alghero)
Albena Bachkova (Stara Zagora)
Silvia Peeva (CSKA)

Shooting guards:
Teodora Petrova (CSKA)
Maria Tsankova (NSA Delta)

Small forwards:
Zhaklyn Zlatanova (Tarbes)
Anna Rimpova (Stara Zagora)
Radostina Dimitrova (CSKA)
Elena Yolovska (CSKA)

Power forwards:
Radostina Slavova (Lukoil Neftochimic)
Svetla Asenova (CSKA)

Centers:
Milena Tomova (Szeviep Seged)
Natalia Topalova (CSKA)

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BURKINA FASO - Women

Bad day for the petroliers -by Michel Pacere
2007-06-03
AS-Sonabhy # ASFA-Y
The first match between these two teams was stopped by the rain at the half time; the petroliers were winning the match with 20 points! Last Sunday, it was hard to say that it was the same teams! Assitan camara and the petroliers, face to the young players of the coach Laurent nikiema, more faster and better defenders, were not able to play as they want!
At the third quarter, Kadi ZOUNGRANA and her team mates changed the defence (zone for individual). They speeded up the game and took advance of 9 points. Coach DAH became angry; Assitan CAMARA wanted her substitution!
Fourth quarter: the petroliers awaked! They tried to reduce the score and to win; Oumou TRAORE couldn't score her free throws! Coach DAH was running after the score but didn't change his defence! Why?
Coach Laurent NIKIEMA (ASFA-Y) won the match! Score: 33-30


Updating championship results (ligue du centre) -by Michel Pacere

2007-06-03
AS-Sonabhy # ASFA-Y: 30-33

2007-06-10
AS-Sonabel # AS-Sonabhy: 46-26
now, it will be hard for AS-Sonabhy to play the finals; they must win against ASFA-Y with 4 points advance!



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CROATIA - Women

Sibenik triumphs in Croatia -by Eurobasket News
ZKK Sibenik Jolly JBS -Gospic 78:69

ZKK Sibenik Jolly JBS triumphs in Croatia. In the decisive fifth game the team overcame Gospic 78:69. ZKK Sibenik Jolly JBS won the third game in the Final over the opponents and celebrated the win in the Play-offs. As a total it gave them 3-2 series. Moreover during the season it was 11th game between two best teams in Croatia. They have been already played with each other 6 times this season. Gospic upset the winner of the regular season 2 times, while ZKK Sibenik Jolly JBS celebrated 4 wins. Except the Champinship, the squads met in Adriatic League and Rimac Cup.

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FINLAND - Women

SM-SARJA: Minna Raatikka back in Finland -by Rauno Hurmalainen
One season College basketball in the USA was enough for Minna Raatikka (182-F-86), who is back in Finland and will play on PuHu, Vantaa roster coming
2007-08 season. PuHu has now signed with two players (Raatikka and Heidi Lonnberg (180-G-78)). Team Head Coach will be again Markus Makkonen .

SM-SARJA: FoA signed two American players -by Rauno Hurmalainen
Alku (Forssa) has signed already with nine players for coming 2007-08 season. Among these nine players there are two Americans: Center Caitlin Chiaramonte (185-F/C-80, college: Fordham) and Guard Megan Griffith (168-G-85). Jari Marjamaki will continue as Team´s Head Coach.

NT: Domingo Diaz new Head Coach for Finland -by Rauno Hurmalainen
Spanish Domingo Diaz , 51, has been named the new Head Coach for Finland NT. The contract is lasting untill the end of the year 2008. Diaz, "Entrenador Superior"
is very experienced Head Coach, coaching 22 seasons in the Spanish Top level and recently Spanish NT. He has led his Team to three Spanish Cup wins and
has won once (2004) Spanish Championship. "I accepted this opportunity, because I love coaching and new challenges". Diaz will arrive in Finland at the end
of June. As the new assistant Coach will be seen in the future Jukka Mantere from Lappeenranta and the Team Manager will be Lea Hakala from Helsinki.

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ISRAEL - Women

Liberty Back to Earth -by Eurobasket News
The New York Liberty suffered its 2nd straight loss of the season, 61-80 at Indiana. Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) didn't play.

The Fever (7-1) avenged New York (5-2) for the loss at MSG last week with a convincing 80-61 win. Indiana controlled the game through out, led 38-20 at the half and 63-46 with 5 minutes to go.

Erin Thorn led NY with 17 points, Ashley Battle added 11 off the bench. Tammy Sutton Brown and Tamika Whitmore led the Fever with 22 pts each.
Courtesy of:http://www.safsal.co.il

LaToya Bond to Bnei Yehuda -by Eurobasket News
Bnei Yehuda signed point guard LaToya Bond (170-G-84, college: Missouri), who played for the Charlotte Sting last season.
Natasha Bratzkova also signed with the team.

LaToya Bond (23, 5'7) is the new point guard of Bnei Yehuda, last year's surprising team. Bond is a talented young guard who played 18 minutes per game with the Sting last season and averaged 5.7 points and 2.1 assists per game. This season Bond was the 10th pick in the Sting's dispersal draft by Sacramento, but didn't make the final roster.

Bond graduated from Missouri University in 2006, and was the 27th overall pick in the draft. In her senior season Bond was named to the Big 12's 1st team & all defensive team. She averaged 17.3 points (51.3% FGs, 39.4% 3pt), 3.1 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game. She finished her career with over 1,000 points and 300 assists, and is only the 3rd Missouri player to accomplish that.

Natasha Brazkova also signed with the team. She's coming back to DI after a one year break. She played her last three seasons with Ramat Hasharon, and averaged 3.8 points (40.0% 3pt) in 13.5 minutes in 05/06.

Bond & Bratzkova are joining Crystal Johnson, Rivi Grinboym, Ayelet Cohen & Tal Salz.
Courtesy of:http://www.safsal.co.il

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LEBANON - Women

14th ARAB CLUBS CHAMPIONSHIP IN MOROCCO -by Raffi Kassabian
The 14th Arab Clubs Championship will be held in Morocco from the 11th till the 20th of June in Morocco. The results of the draw show that the 13th edition titile holder Antranik Beirut from Lebanon will play in Group A alongside CS Sfaxis from Tunisia, Widad Baydawi from Morocco, Orthodoxy from Jordan, Hurrieh from Syria. Group B includes the Royal Army from Morocco, Arab Academy from Egypt, Akad Ankaweh from Irak, and ASPTT from Algeria. The teams ranked first and second from each group reach the semifinals where the first ranked team of group A plays against the second ranked team in group B and the first ranked team in group B plays against the first ranked team in group A.

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MONTENEGRO - Women

MNT U16 Roster -by Dragan Scepanovic
Head coach of MNT U16 national team Baletic Mirko anounced national team of MNT U16f or European B Division tournament.Member of MNT U16 : Perunovic Marija(Buducnost Podgorica,Grnovic Milena (Buducnost Podgorica),Lazovic Snezana(BC Jedinstvo),Markovic Andrea (BC Jedinstvo),Sosic Dejana(BC Jedinstvo),Turcinovic Ana (BCH.Novi),Kalac Lejla(BC Kastel Nuovo),Kozic vesna (BC Kastel Nuovo),Roganovic Nadja(BC Kastel Nuovo),Jovanovic Cvetana(BC Kastel Nuovo),Kalac Jasmina (BC Rozaje),Sabovic Adela(BC Rozaje),Hodzic Minela(BC Rozaje),Stanisic Masa(BC Bonus Niksic),Nikolic Neda(BC Bonus Niksic),Baletic Hajdana(BC Bonus Niksic),Milosev Milica (BC Bonus Niksic),Jovanovic Jovana (BC Bonus Niksic),Zlajic Andjela(BC Centar B.Polje),Obradovic Nena(BC Centar B.Polje),Burdzovic Dalida (BC Centar B.Polje),Jovic Ivana (BC Ada Bojana Ulcinj),Nikic Ivana (BC Ada Bojana Ulcinj)

MNT U18 Roster -by Dragan Scepanovic
Head coach of MNT U18/U21 national team Curovic Aleksandar anounced national team of MNT U18 for tournament B Division in Romania.Member of MNT U18:Cavic Gordana(BC Kastel Nuovo),Aleksic Snezana(BC Buducnost),Culafic Jelena(BC Buducnost),Vujicic Natasa(BC H.Novi),Vujadinovic Marija(BC Kastel Nuovo),Joksimovic Sandra (BC Jedinstvo),Turcinovic Biljana (BC H.Novi),Kekic Tijana(BC Kastel Nuovo),Djurovic Andjela(BC Buducnost Podgorica),Terzic Marija(BC Crvena Zvezda Belgrade),Jovanovic Milica(BC Buducnost Podgorica),Ratkovic Aleksandra(BC Kastel Nuovo)

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NCAA - Women

Former Women's Basketball Players Extend Careers as Coaches -by Eurobasket News
Former University of Wisconsin-Green Bay women's basketball players Abby Scharlow and Alex Webster return to their home state of Indiana to continue their basketball careers, this time in coaching. Scharlow, a native of New Albany, Ind., will serve as an assistant coach at Valparaiso University while Webster of Crown Point, Ind., heads to IPFW in Fort Wayne.

Scharlow, who wrapped up her professional playing career after two seasons in Europe and the United States, was a three-year standout at UW-Green Bay. As a Phoenix, she tallied 1,187 career points, and upon her graduation in 2005, ranked second with 156 career three-point field goals. She was a two-time first-team all-Horizon League selection.

Webster was also a three-year letterwinner with the Phoenix, taking the floor in 50 games as a reserve guard. She was named the Beth Gantz team award winner in 2007 and was twice named to the Horizon League's Academic Honor Roll. Upon completion of her senior season at UW-Green Bay, Webster was one of 48 seniors to participate in the WBCA's "So You Want To Be A Coach" program at the 2007 NCAA Final Four.

UW-Green Bay will face Scharlow and Valparaiso in 2007-08, as the Crusaders will officially join the Horizon League July 1.
Courtesy of:http://uwgbathletics.cstv.com

Eight Huskers Earn Honor Roll Spots -by Eurobasket News
Lincoln - Eight current and former members of the Nebraska women's basketball team claimed spots on the Big 12 Commissioner's Spring Academic Honor Roll released this week.

Kelsey Griffin, a 2007 first-team All-Big 12 selection on and off the court, headlined the list of Huskers on the conference honor roll. The sophomore from Eagle River, Alaska, who was also a member of the Big 12 Winter Good Works Team, earned her fourth straight appearance on the Big 12 list.

Senior forward Chelsea Aubry, an honorable-mention All-Big 12 selection on the court in 2007, also continued her academic success with an appearance on the honor roll. The Kitchener, Ontario, native earned her fifth appearance on the Big 12 academic honor squad. Junior forward Danielle Page, a first-team academic All-Big 12 selection in 2007, added her fourth appearance on the honor roll.

Freshmen Kala Kuhlmann and Cory Montgomery both claimed positions on the honor roll for the second straight semesters, while former Huskers Ivana Drmanac (6'2''-F-83), Elena Diaz (6'1''-F-83) and Heather Kephart (5'8''-G) continued their strong academic careers by claiming honor roll spots.

An impressive list of 255 Nebraska student-athletes across all sports claimed spots on the Big 12 Commissioner's Spring Academic Honor Roll. Among the 255 student-athletes who achieved 3.0 or better grade-point averages during the semester, 46 Huskers posted perfect 4.0 GPAs.

Overall for the academic year, Nebraska student-athletes earned 525 spots on the Big 12 fall and spring honor rolls, including 79 perfect 4.0 semesters.

Nebraska's approach to recruiting the nation's finest student-athletes yielded a remarkably diverse contingent of spring academic honorees that included representatives of 23 U.S. states and 17 foreign countries, including honor roll members from four Canadian provinces. The Huskers' Big 12 Commissioner's Spring Academic Honor Roll class also carried a distinct state flavor with 104 native Nebraskans among the 255 award winners.

The eight women's basketball players on the Big 12 Commissioner's Spring Academic Honor Roll came to Nebraska from five U.S. states and three foreign countries
Courtesy of NU Media Relations

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NCAA2 - Women

Peter Cinella named Women's basketball coach at Fairleigh Dickinson -by Eurobasket News
Pater Cinella , who recently wrapped up his 14th season as the head women's basketball coach at American International College, resigned from that position Friday to accept the head women's basketball coach position at Division I Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, N.J. Pater Cinella , whose tenure was fourth among Northeast-10 coaches, will become the sixth head coach in the history of FDU women's basketball.

"This is certainly a great opportunity for Peter. He has done amazing things for AIC and the women's basketball program here, and this is a great opportunity for him," said AIC Director of Athletics Richard Bedard. "While he will certainly be missed, we wish him nothing but the best of luck in his new endeavor."

Named the fourth head coach in AIC women's basketball history on June 28, 1993 at the age of 25 after a year as an assistant to former head coach Denise Taylor and a year as an assistant with the Yellow Jacket men's basketball program, Pater Cinella has compiled a 291-122 (.691) record in 14 seasons at the helm. Over that span, AIC has posted nine 20-win seasons and made nine appearances in the NCAA Division II tournament, including in each of the last four seasons. The Yellow Jackets captured the Northeast Region championship and advanced to the NCAA Division II "Elite Eight" in 2002 and 2006, and in 2006 advanced to the national championship game, falling to Grand Valley State 58-52.

Under his tutelage, numerous players have been named Northeast-10 All-Conference and Kodak/WBCA All-Northeast Region. Two players have garnered All-America honors, with Sharmion Selman named a Kodak/WBCA First Team All-American in 2005-06 and Alexis Castro named to the Daktronics Division II All-America Second Team last season.

A 1990 graduate of Western New England College, Pater Cinella was a four-year starter for the Golden Bears and led the team to the NCAA Division III tournament as a senior while scoring over 1,000 career points. He is a native of Lee, Mass. and a 1986 graduate of Lee High School, where his father, Tom Cinella , is the highly-successful coach of the girls' basketball program there.

Pater Cinella inherits a Fairleigh Dickinson squad that went 11-18 last season and posted an 8-10 mark in Northeast Conference play. The Knights advanced to the NEC quarterfinals before bowing to Robert Morris.

A successor to Pater Cinella will be named in the near future.
Courtesy of:www.aicyellowjackets.com

New Women's Basketball Head Coach Hired -by Eurobasket News
The head coach at Portland State University, a Division I school, has been hired to lead the Triton women's basketball program, officials announced Monday. Charity Elliott becomes only the fifth head coach in the 36-year history of the program and takes over a squad that posted a 27-5 overall record and qualified for the NCAA Division II Final Four last season.

“We are thrilled to have Charity on board as our new women's basketball coach,” said Director of Athletics Earl W. Edwards. “She is extremely qualified and will bring a wealth of passion and knowledge to this program that will help us to maintain our standing among the nation's elite.”

Elliott replaces former UCSD Coach Janell Jones who posted a 50-10 record in her two seasons at the helm before leaving to become the head coach at Mercer University, a Division I program located in Macon, Ga.

“I am very excited to be a part of the UCSD family,” said Elliott. “This is a position I have always had my eyes on because of the program's tradition of academic and athletic excellence. The location was another key factor for me as I have always considered San Diego my second home.”

Elliott comes to UCSD after spending the previous three seasons as the head coach at Portland State, a NCAA Division I member that competes in the Big Sky, where she produced one of the nation's biggest turnaround stories.

After the Vikings went 3-23, including 1-13 in the Big Sky Conference, during her first year in 2004-05, Portland State jumped to 12-16 and 6-8 in the conference during her second season. The nine-win improvement ranked among the nation's top 20, and the Vikings qualified for the Big Sky Tournament for the first time since 2002-03 season.

In what would turn out to be her final campaign with Portland State last year, Elliott guided the Vikings to a 12-18 overall record and an 8-8 mark in Big Sky play. Portland State's season would come to an end last year after a 77-67 loss to Weber State in the first round of the Big Sky Tournament.

Elliott took over the Portland State job after serving as an assistant coach for Arkansas for one season where she helped the Razorbacks to a 16-12 mark. Prior to that position, she was the head coach at Cal Baptist, a NAIA school in Riverside, where she guided the Lancers to a 16-16 record in her final year, snapping the program's 10-year streak of losing seasons.

During her coaching career she also served in assistant roles with Southwest Baptist (a Division II school that compiled a 56-28 record during her three years), Southwest Missouri State (her alma mater), and San Diego State (under head coach Beth Burns in 1993-94).

A former Division I player, Elliott began her career at Rice University where she played for two seasons. She averaged 16 points per game as a sophomore before transferring to Southwest Missouri State (now Missouri State). While at SMS, Elliott helped the Bears to a 31-3 record as a senior and the program's first-ever Final Four appearance in 1992.

In addition to UCSD's Final Four appearance last year, the Tritons also captured the program's first-ever CCAA Championships, posting a 19-3 record in league play. UCSD also would go on to earn the top-seed in the West Regional, hosting the event in RIMAC Arena where the Tritons would defeated No. 2 Chico State by 17 points to earn its first-ever NCAA Division II West Region Championship.

“My immediate goal is to continue the recent tradition of success in this program,” added Elliott. “What Coach Jones did here was remarkable and I am looking forward to the challenge of taking this program a step or two further.”

The program returns 14 student-athletes from last year's squad including two starters, junior Michelle Osier and senior Jillian Ricks. Osier is a two-time First Team All-CCAA honoree and has averaged 12.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game through her first two seasons on the La Jolla campus. Ricks averaged 4.8 points and 3.3 rebounds in her first season for the Tritons after transferring in from Orange Coast College prior to last season.

Also returning is senior sharpshooter Meaghan Noud. Last year, as a junior, she ranked fourth on the team in scoring with her 9.5 points per game while sinking 36 3-pointers, which ranked second on the squad.
Courtesy of:http://ucsdnews.ucsd.edu/

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NCAA3 - Women

ETBU women hire Memphis assistant -by Eurobasket News
Jay Bowen , an assistant coach at Memphis the last two seasons, has been named the new head women's basketball coach at East Texas Baptist.

Bowen brings over 23 seasons of coaching experience to ETBU, which is coming off a 22-5 season in 2006-07 that saw the Lady Tigers win their first outright American Southwest Conference East Division championship since 1999-2000.

“We are pleased to welcome coach Bowen to our staff at ETBU,” said ETBU Athletic Director Kent Reeves. “He is a well-respected coach who has had a lot of success at both the college and high school levels. We feel like his experience and knowledge of the game will help continue the rise of our Lady Tiger basketball program.”

While at Memphis, Bowen was responsible for recruiting Texas, which made him an attractive candidate according to Reeves.

“Jay's experience and ties to the region are just some of the things we are excited about,” Reeves said. “We wanted a coach with Texas ties.”

Bowen replaces former ETBU coach Lisa Curliss-Taylor, who resigned earlier this month to take the head coaching position at NCAA Division II Missouri-St. Louis after four seasons with the Lady Tigers.

“My family and I are thrilled to have this opportunity to join the ETBU family,” said Bowen. “We are looking forward to becoming a part of the Christian and family atmosphere at ETBU.”

A native of Memphis, Bowen has had collegiate coaching stops at Memphis, the Mississippi, Austin Peay, Georgia State, Armstrong State and Christian Brothers.

As head coach of the East Central Community College men's program from 1989-91, Bowen's recruiting efforts paid off with the program's highest win total (21) in a single season in 30 years in 1990-91. After leaving ECCC following that season to take an assistant coaching position at Georgia State, Bowen would return to ECCC as head coach in 1998 to guide a program that hadn't had a winning season in five years to a winning season the following year.

Bowen has also worked as a recruiting coordinator at Austin Peay, where his 2001-02 recruiting class went on to generate back-to-back Ohio Valley Conference championships which included an undefeated record in the OVC in 2003-04.

He became the director of basketball operations at Ole Miss in 2002, and became an assistant coach for the Rebels in 2004.

Bowen later moved on to become head coach at Lafayette High School in Oxford, Miss., where his 2004-05 squad won more games than the seven previous years. During that season, Lafayette also knocked off the sixth-ranked team in the state despite starting just one junior, four sophomores and using an eighth-grader as a sixth man.

At ETBU, Bowen takes over a program that has won 40 games over the last two seasons and didn't have a single senior on the roster during last season's run, which saw them win 14 straight games before suffering a 75-73 loss to McMurry in the conference tournament semifinals.

“We want to make the transition as easy as possible for our players,” Bowen said. “This program has been built on a solid foundation and we are going to look to continue building on the success and tradition already established.”

A graduate of Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Bowen earned his master's degree in education from then-Memphis State University in 1988. He and his wife, Cristy, have two daughters, Ashleigh and Katelyn.
Courtesy of:http://www.d3hoops.com

Bausch moves again, to St. Mary's -by Eurobasket News
Barb Bausch takes over the reins of St. Mary's (Md.) after a season at Vassar. Bausch began her duties on June 5, 2007. Vassar finished 6-18 in 2006-07.

Bausch was a vocal opponent of proposed legislation this past season that would have curtailed the use of male practice players in women's athletics. The proposal was defeated.

Prior to her stint at Vassar, Bausch served as the head coach and Senior Woman Administrator at Guilford for 10 seasons, compiling a record of 187-80 (.700) with the Quakers. She led Guilford to the regular-season Old Dominion Athletic Conference championship and guided the school to back-to-back appearances in the second round of the NCAA Tournament from 2000-02. The all-time leader in women's basketball coaching victories at Guilford, Bausch was named the ODAC Coach of the Year twice in 1995 and 2000, coaching four league Players of the Year, two ODAC Rookies of the Year, two Division III All-Americans, and seven all-conference honorees to 14 first- or second-team all-conference commendations.

She finished her tenure with the Quakers with three consecutive 20-win seasons (and four overall in her career), including a school-record 25 wins in 2001-02. In 1995, she guided the Quakers to 20 victories and the first of four consecutive ODAC Tournament semifinal appearances en route to her first coach of the year honor.

She joined the Quakers in 1993 after coaching and teaching in the physical education department at Pomona-Pitzer. She also made assistant coaching stops at Cerritos College, a two-year school in Norwalk, Calif. (1991-92) and Springfield (1990-91).

Bausch has also taken her talents overseas, coaching the last 11 years at the Hoersholm Invitational Basketball Camp in Denmark, teaching children ages 9-18. She coached five players in that camp who have gone on to play at NCAA institutions and in 2000, Bausch became the first female coach to head the entire camp.

A native of Yorba Linda, Calif., Bausch earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in exercise science in 1987 from Cal State Fullerton where she served as an assistant coach for three seasons (2003-06). She earned her master's degree in sports psychology in 1991 from Fullerton as well. She was named the 1989 Cal State Fullerton Graduate Student of the Year and the 1989 CIF Coach of the Year.
Courtesy of:http://www.d3hoops.com

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SERBIA - Women

Ivana Matovic in Spartak Moscow! -by Predrag Bojovic
After spending 3 good years in MKB Euroleasing Sopron,one of the best European centers,Ivana Matovic (197-C-83) have signed 3 years contract with Russia Champions and Euroleague winners Spartak Moscow Region. 197cm tall center will be a big adition to the squad of Spartak Moscow and will surely help them to defend tropheys that team won in season 2006/2007.
Ivana Matovic won Hungarian Cup(where she was the MVP and best rebounder) and Hungarian league this season.In Euroleague she average 16.2 pts and 6.2 reb while scoring in double digits in every single game.
She refused few offers from WNBA teams in order to get rest and prepare good for upcoming season but its sure that she will be there next summer.

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TURKEY - Women

Anatolian Basketball Tour -by Cem Guvener
Turkish Basketball Federation and University of Delaware organized a trip in Anatolia aiming to increase the attention towards women's basketball in Turkey. In this tour there will be trainings and panels. Players from University of Delaware will attend these trainings. Also Prof. Dr. David Barlow and Prof. Dr. Mathew Robinson will enlighten the audience about sports management and sports marketing.

June 12th - Ankara
June 13th - Kayseri
June 14th - Nevsehir
June 15th - Adana
June 16th - Adana
June 17th - Mersin

Team Changed Name! -by Unsal Yilmaz
Ted Kayseri Koleji , will play in the league under the name of " Pankup Ted Kayseri Kolejspor" from now on... Also , in the congress, it is agreed that present president Omer Yagmur will stay as a predient for two more years...

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WNBA - Women

Sacramento on top of Western conference -by Eurobasket News

Sacramento upset the Houston Comets 82:67 at home today to climb back on top of the Western conference. Houston meanwhile suffered their 7th consecutive loss and continue to pile up this negative franchise-record.
Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, college: USC) had an impressive night for the Comets but received little support from her teammates. She nailed a jumper to make it 28:32 at the start of the third quarter. But the Monarchs answered with 9:0 run to edge ahead to 44:30. Later on the advantage kept growing and reached a 53:36 mark before the end of the third. Houston just managed to cut the lead to 53:61 in the final frame but as far as it got. Kara Lawson (5'8''-G-81, college: Tennessee) led the Monarchs with 24 points. Nicole Powell finished with 17 points, while Rebekkah Brunson (6'3''-F/C-81, college: Georgetown) scored 14 points for the winners. Tina Thompson seemed to battle alone as she poured in 33 points and grabbed 6 boards in a losing effort. Latasha Byears added 9 points. The Comets outrebounded the Monarchs 29:20 but committed massive 26 turnovers. The Monarchs bench outscored their opponents 33:18.
Sacramento improved to 6-3 record to occupy the top spot in the West. Houston are at 0-7 at the bottom of the ladder.

Sacramento - Houston 82:67
Sacramento: Kara Lawson 24 points, Nicole Powell 17, Rebekkah Brunson 14, Yolanda Griffith (6'4''-C/F-70, college: Florida Atlantic) 10
Houston: Tina Thompson 33, Latasha Byears 9.



Tamika Catchings and Rebekkah Brunson earn Weekly awards -by Eurobasket News
Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) from Indiana and Rebekkah Brunson (6'3''-F/C-81, college: Georgetown) of Sacramento became the WNBA Players of the Week.
The Indiana Fever had 3 victories during the week's action, which lifted them to a 7-1 record for the season. Tamika Catchings had 12 points, 9 rebounds, 7 steals and 3 assists against the Houston Comets. The Fever won 84:59 and Catchings' 7 steals matched an all-time WNBA record for steals in one half. Later Catchings posted 24 points, 12 boards, 3 blocks and 2 steals versus the Washington Mystics. She also scored 14 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and dished out 4 assists in a 80:61 win over the New York Liberty. So her average stats for the week came up to 17.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 3.5 steals per game.
Rebekkah Brunson received a Player of the Week award for the first time in her career. She helped her Sacramento to record 2-1 in the week's action. Brunson delivered 21 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and made 2 steals against San Antonio on June 5. In the next encounter with the Phoenix Mercury Brunson had 17 points and 17 rebounds. She also produced 13 points and 10 boards in a 81:72 win over Seattle.
The winners cleared off Cheryl Ford (6'3''-F/C-81, college: Louisiana Tech) from Detroit, Cathrine Kraayeveld from the Liberty, Lauren Jackson from Seattle and Washington's Alana Beard for the award.
Meanwhile it became known that the Los Angeles Sparks forward Chamique Holdsclaw announced her retirement. Haldsclaw joined the Sparks in 2005, she played in 5 games in this season, averaging 15.8 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.0 assists. Haldsclaw was the WNBA Rookie of the Year in 1999, she also was the only NCAA player to reach 3000-point mark.